How to distinguish between gas and a heart attack – 3 ways to find out
When it comes to heart attack, or just heart disease in general, there are many conditions that could mimic a heart attack, such as anxiety, a physical blow to the chest, and the most common one, a gas attack. However, besides the somewhat overlapping systems, there is nothing in common between the two conditions. While a gas attack, even though extremely uncomfortable, usually poses no danger, and can resolve on its own, a heart issue is a medical emergency, that, if left untreated can be fatal. However, how does one differentiate between the two often similar feeling conditions? Here are 3 ways to find out…Nature and location of painThe pain from gas typically presents as sharp, burning or cramp sensations, which occur in the upper stomach area, and lower chest region. The pain tends to shift its location while the person moves their body. The symptoms of gas pain include bloating, belching and passing gas. These symptoms tend to resolve after someone burps, or has a bowel movement. The pain from gas becomes more severe after consuming foods that produce gas such as beans and cola.Heart attack pain on the other hand, presents itself through different symptoms than other conditions. A heart attack symptom presents as intense heavy pressure, which feels like squeezing, or tightness in the middle of the chest. The pain from a heart attack tends to move throughout the left arm, jaw, neck and back, and occasionally reaches other body regions. The way pain moves throughout the body, serves as a primary indicator of a heart attack. The discomfort from a heart attack remains steady, and does not improve when someone burps or changes their body position. The pain from this condition feels cold, deep and becomes impossible to disregard.
Duration and relief of painThe duration of gas pain typically ranges from several minutes to two hours. The pain from gas releases when a person burps or changes their body position. The pain from gas appears and disappears, while patients experience fullness and bloating symptoms.The duration of heart attack pain exceeds 15-20 minutes, while it continues without any relief from rest or movement. The discomfort persists without any relief, when a person rests or moves their body. The pain maintains its steady level or it intensifies. Medical professionals should treat recurring chest pain as a life-threatening condition, until doctors confirm the cause.Other symptomsThe symptoms of gas pain include stomach rumbling, flatulence and light indigestion, but they remain mild, and usually do not lead to sweating or dizziness.The symptoms of heart attacks include severe shortness of breath, cold sweats, dizziness, nausea and faintness. Some heart attack patients experience weakness in their arms or legs as well. Women experience heart attack symptoms differently than men, because they might experience unusual fatigue and stomach discomfort.Tests to confirm diagnosisMedical professionals use different tests to identify the source of the condition. The electrocardiogram (ECG) device monitors heart rhythms, to detect heart attack indicators. Blood tests help doctors identify heart damage through specific marker measurements. The diagnosis of digestive causes requires imaging tests, including ultrasound and endoscopy. Medical evaluation for chest pain should not be delayed, because it indicates possible dangerous health conditions.
When to seek emergency helpEmergency services require immediate contact, when chest pain creates heavy pressure, that moves to the arm or jaw while causing sweating and breathlessness. You should not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital, because you need to call for emergency assistance. Early medical intervention helps protect heart muscle tissue and prevents fatal outcomes.The discomfort of gas pain usually remains non-threatening to health, and is relieved by burping or gas release. A visit to the doctor is necessary when chest pain becomes severe, and accompanied by vomiting, fever or additional concerning symptoms.Healthy habits to prevent both issuesPeople who eat smaller portions, and stay away from gas-producing foods while practicing stress management techniques, will experience fewer gas-related issues. The heart receives protection through weight management, exercise, smoking cessation, blood pressure, cholesterol control and adequate hydration. The established habits create advantages for both digestive system health, and cardiovascular wellness.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice
