What's the difference between gas and a heart attack? Learn these important tips to avoid confusion.

Gas problems are typically stomach-related and aren't particularly dangerous. A heart attack, on the other hand, is a medical emergency, and delay can be fatal. People often mistake chest pain for gas.

Many of us have experienced chest pain or a burning sensation at some point. Sometimes we think it's gas, and sometimes we fear it might be a heart attack. In fact, both gas and heart attacks can appear quite similar in their initial symptoms, especially when it comes to chest pain or heaviness. This is why people often get confused and don't seek timely treatment. 

 

Gas problems are usually stomach-related and aren't dangerous. A heart attack, on the other hand, is a serious medical emergency where delay can be fatal. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the differences between gas pain and heart attack pain, and when you should immediately consult a doctor. So, let's explain the difference between gas pain and a heart attack and what precautions you can take to protect yourself from both.

 

1. Where and what type of pain occurs - Gas pain usually occurs in the upper abdomen or lower chest. It feels like a burning sensation, a stinging sensation, or a cramp. This pain may subside or change location with a change in body position. Gas can also be accompanied by symptoms like bloating, belching, and relief after a bowel movement. A heart attack, on the other hand, is completely different. This pain feels like a heaviness, pressure, or tightness in the center of the chest, as if something is compressing the heart. This pain usually radiates to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back. Notably, it doesn't get relieved by changing body position or belching. 

2. Duration of pain and how it is relieved - Gas pain can last from a few minutes to 1-2 hours, and is relieved as soon as the gas is released through belching or stool. This pain comes and goes in bits. Heart attack pain, on the other hand, typically lasts longer than 15-20 minutes and is not relieved even with rest. Persistent and worsening pain can be a sign of danger. 

3. Differences in symptoms: Gastric problems cause bloating, rumbling, belching, and mild discomfort. It usually doesn't cause sweating or dizziness. Heart attacks have specific symptoms, such as cold sweats, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, weakness, and, in some cases, even fainting. Women may also experience distinct symptoms, such as abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, and headaches. 

How to prevent this? 

To prevent both gas and heart attacks, making small lifestyle changes can be very beneficial. To avoid gas, avoid eating too much at one time. Avoid beans, cola, and spicy foods. Eat on time, reduce stress, and eat slowly. Additionally, to prevent heart attacks, engage in moderate exercise daily, quit smoking, maintain weight control, have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly, try to reduce stress, drink plenty of water, and get adequate sleep. 

 

If you experience severe chest pressure, pain radiating to your arm or jaw, difficulty breathing, sweating, or dizziness, call an ambulance immediately and do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. Timely treatment can prevent heart damage. Gas pain usually doesn't require emergency treatment, but if the pain persists, is severe, or is accompanied by vomiting or fever, it's important to see a doctor.