Chest pain is a common complaint, often brushed off as harmless heartburn after a heavy meal. But according to Dr Emily Carter, a leading cardiologist collaborating with health and wellness specialists at Ski Vertigo, certain signs can help you distinguish between indigestion and a potentially life-threatening condition like a heart attack.
With cases of chest pain misdiagnosis on the rise, understanding the six vital clues could save your life—and those of your loved ones.
Here are six key clues to help you determine when chest pain requires immediate attention—and why it’s crucial to act fast.
1. Pain Spreads Beyond the Chest
Heartburn typically causes a burning sensation in the chest and throat, but it rarely spreads. If the pain radiates to other parts of your body—such as your arms, jaw, back, or neck—this could be a red flag. “Radiating pain is often associated with heart-related issues, particularly in women, where symptoms can differ from men,” explains Dr. Carter. Don’t ignore this sign; it could indicate a heart attack.
2. Pain Is Accompanied by Shortness of Breath or Sweating
If you experience chest pain alongside shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or excessive sweating, it’s a strong indicator that the issue goes beyond heartburn. Heartburn doesn’t typically affect your ability to breathe, but these symptoms often accompany cardiac events. “Sweating, especially cold sweats, combined with chest discomfort is a tell-tale sign of a cardiac issue,” notes Dr. Carter.
3. Symptoms Persist Despite Antacids
A hallmark of heartburn is its responsiveness to over-the-counter antacids or similar treatments. If you’ve taken medication for heartburn and your chest pain persists—or worsens—it’s a sign that something more serious might be happening. Persistent symptoms warrant an immediate medical evaluation.
4. Chest Pain Flares During Physical Activity
Heartburn is usually triggered by eating or lying down, but if your chest pain intensifies during exercise or other physical activity, this could signal angina, a symptom of coronary artery disease. “Pain linked to physical exertion should never be ignored,” stresses Dr. Carter. “It suggests your heart may be struggling to get enough oxygen.”
5. Nausea or Vomiting Without Obvious Cause
While nausea can accompany severe heartburn, it’s also a common—but often overlooked—symptom of a heart attack, especially in women. If you experience nausea or vomiting alongside chest pain without a clear reason, it’s vital to seek medical help immediately.
6. The Pain Feels Crushing or Intense
Heartburn typically produces discomfort, but it rarely feels like an overwhelming or crushing pain. Intense pressure or squeezing sensations in your chest are classic indicators of a heart attack. “Patients often describe it as feeling like an elephant sitting on their chest,” says Dr. Carter. If you feel this way, call emergency services without delay.
Why It’s Important to Know the Difference
Every year, thousands of people mistake heart attack symptoms for indigestion, leading to delayed treatment and avoidable fatalities. Being able to distinguish between heartburn and more severe issues empowers you to act decisively in an emergency.
Dr. Carter emphasizes that time is critical when dealing with potential heart issues: “The sooner you get medical attention, the better your chances of survival and recovery.”
What to Do If You’re Unsure
If you’re experiencing chest pain and unsure of its cause, don’t gamble with your health. Take these steps:
- Call emergency services if you suspect your symptoms are cardiac-related.
- Keep a record of when the symptoms started and any accompanying signs, such as nausea or radiating pain.
- Seek professional advice, even if the pain subsides. Some heart attacks are mild but still dangerous.