Acid Reflux Pain Often Mistaken For Heart Attack

Acid reflux pain is sometimes traumatic for the person who is having it and for the entire family. The pain is so severe and specially focused in the chest area that it is often easily mistaken as a heart attack. Acid reflux pain can create a real panic in anyone's life.

Imagine yourself relaxing after a delicious and mouth watering menu specially prepared by your wife or mom. Suddenly, the heartburn starts and you are attacked by a severe pain in the chest and the backbone. Anyone can be left shattered in such a situation only to realize later that it was a simple acid reflux pain.

The most common medication people follow in case of acid reflux pain is to have an antacid. This may give immediate relief from the uneasiness and discomfort caused by acid reflux pain but antacid is not a cure of the disease. It is just a relief from the symptom of acid reflux problem.

To differentiate between acid reflux pain and a heart attack, one must be conscious of the kind of pain that he/she is getting. Usually acid reflux pain increases on lying down or after a large meal. On the other hand a heart attack normally accompanies a feeling of heaviness with the pain radiating to the left arm and neck area as well. An acid reflux pain eases on taking an antacid whereas in case of heart attack antacids do not help. If one does not have a family history of heart troubles then chest pain at a younger age (less than 40) usually refers to an acid reflux pain.

Pain Is Body's Notification System

Acid reflux pains, followed by dryness of the throat and regurgitation of the food can damage the esophageal lining. Damaged esophageal lining can lead to heart burn and a feeling of irritation and inflammation. When these become very frequent, say 2-3 times a week, then it is time to be alert and knock the doors of your family physician.

Frequent bouts of acid reflux pain are a warning signal of the defense mechanism of the body that something is wrong. It is therefore advisable to understand these signals and undergo a proper diagnosis to find the reason of acid reflux pain. In most cases, dietary and lifestyle changes can make the difference. However, if the body is abused beyond a limit, acid reflux pains can also lead to fatal conditions such as esophageal ulcers and cancer.

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