Heart Attack vs Heartburn: Know the difference

In India, where heart disease has become the leading cause of death and spicy diets are common, distinguishing between a heart attack and heartburn is crucial. These are fundamentally different conditions, each manifesting through distinct symptoms. According to the World Heart Federation, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), account for 60% of total adult deaths in India, with CVDs responsible for 26% of these deaths11.

Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. The World Heart Federation identifies key risk factors: 15% of Indians smoke tobacco, an average consumption of 4.3 litres of pure alcohol per person, and 21.1% have hypertension, increasing the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular conditions.
Heart attack symptoms include severe chest pressure often described as "an elephant sitting on the chest," pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, or back, accompanied by breathlessness, sweating, and nausea. These symptoms typically don't improve with home remedies.

Heartburn/Acid Reflux
On the other hand, heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe. This is especially common in India due to our spice-rich cuisine and habits like consuming paan masala. It presents as a burning sensation behind the breastbone with a sour taste in the mouth, frequently following spicy meals like dishes with garam masala or chilli and usually improves with antacids.

Key Differences
One of the key differentiating factors between a heart attack and heartburn is that in the former, the pain spreads beyond the chest, while in the latter, it remains localised. Heartburn typically follows meals, especially after a heavy meal or oily food, whereas heart attacks can occur anytime, and antacids have no role to play.

When to Seek Help
If chest pain lasts more than 15 minutes, and you experience shortness of breath or dizziness, or if the pain radiates to other body parts, visit the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.

Prevention

Maintain a balanced diet with fewer fried foods and more vegetables, practice yoga and regular exercise, avoid excessive tea, coffee, and tobacco, and get regular check-ups. For heartburn prevention, avoid lying down after meals and limit spicy foods.

(Article courtesy: Dr Rajiv Bhagwat, Sr Consultant Cardiologist, Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai)

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