Is It Gastric Pain Or A Heart Problem?

If you belch or pass gas and the pain goes away, you could just be experiencing stomach pain or heartburn. However, if the pain persists and you have shortness of breath or nausea, it could be a heart-related issue. Often, people are confused by the symptoms of these conditions.

It’s perfectly normal to pass gas between 10 and 20 times a day. At the same time, it’s understandable to be worried if you feel chest pains after having a heavy meal. However, there are slight differences between the feeling of a heart attack, heartburn, and gastric problems.

Typically, gas causes bloating, burping, knotted stomach, and sharp pains that suddenly come and go. On the other hand, symptoms of a heart attack include cold sweat, palpitations, light-headedness, nausea or vomiting, pain in your upper body, arms, and shortness of breath. Symptoms of a heart attack typically worsen during physical activities. On the other hand, symptoms of heartburn or a gastric problem are usually unrelated to physical activities.

If you have persistent chest pain and you aren't sure if it's heartburn, seek emergency medical help. Remember, the pain doesn't have to last a long time to be a warning sign.

This article was contributed by Dr Chong Wei Peng, Consultant Cardiologist at Pantai Hospital Ampang. To know more about where and when to see Dr Chong Wei Peng at his clinic, click here.