Heart Attack
Myocardial Infarction, or a heart attack, occurs when the arteries of a patient’s heart do not receive enough blood flow. It causes ischemia in certain parts of the heart, which is a lack of blood and oxygen. Chest pain and other symptoms are the result. It is important to note that symptoms of a heartattack can vary depending on the cause.
Heartburn
Heartburn is caused when stomach acid surges into your esophagus. This acid dissolves food in the body. The stomach lining protects the body from the acid.
This lining is not present in the esophagus. When the acid reaches the esophagus it can cause a burning sensation, which causes discomfort and pain for the patient.
Heartburn can be a common occurrence. If heartburn is frequent and severe, this can indicate GERD, acid reflux and, in some cases pregnancy.
Heartburn Symptoms and Heart Attack Symptoms
Although both conditions can have the same symptoms, they affect different areas.
Heartburn begins in the upper stomach area and moves to the chest. A heart attack is characterized by a painful sensation on the left or center side of the chest. This feeling can be described as “pressure” or a squeezing sensation on the chest.
Heartburn can be quite painful, especially after a meal. A heart attack is usually accompanied by sudden pains. Heartburn can also leave you with an unpleasant taste because of the acid. Heart attacks, on the other hand will cause you to feel short of breath.
How To Avoid Acid Reflux
There is a variety of ways to reduce your risk of heartburn.
- You must first avoid citrus, alcohol and cigarettes. This causes the valve that connects the esophagus to the stomach to relax. It makes it easier for acid to rise.
- If you have heartburn, it is important that you raise your bed prior to sleeping. Gravity will help you keep your stomach contents in your stomach if you raise your bed 6 inches above the ground.
See Your Doctor
If you experience heartburn, or heart attacks, and the symptoms are severe, frequent and persistent, visit your doctor and hospital.
