Heartburn / Angina Symptoms
The Difference between Heartburn/Angina Symptoms
Pain in the chest area could be the result of one of two conditions, one of which is common heartburn; angina symptoms are very similar, however, and can be an indicator of a serious problem. It is important to be aware of the differences between the two in order in order to take the proper actions necessary that may save a life.
Chest pains can and should be a matter of concern when they occur. Millions of individuals across the country suffer from some variety of heart disease; many of whom have yet to discover that fact. There are a large number of seemingly “healthy” people, ones who have regular annual medical examinations, who still can have major arteries in conditions which are potentially life threatening. Any form of pain in the chest that persists for more than a few minutes should immediately raise a red flag and result in a phone call to a doctor even if the pain stops. Under no circumstances should an individual believe that they have the experience and ability to self-diagnose their condition, as this is often a folly that leads to serious health problems or even death.
While many cases of discomfort could very well be symptomatic of heartburn, angina symptoms often mimic the same telltale signs. Pain or extreme discomfort are the most reported sensations of each, but there are differences that can be recognized if the sufferer knows to identify them. Learning the characteristics of each condition can be highly beneficial in categorizing them when they occur.
Heartburn is what is felt when the acid in the stomach backs up through the cardiac sphincter and into the esophagus itself. The muscular walls of the esophagus become inflamed, resulting in a burning sensation that begins in the center of the chest and can rise up into the throat. This uncomfortable pain often occurs shortly after eating a meal or sometimes happens in the night. It always increases in intensity when the individual lies down or bends over. The condition of heartburn is common, and generally does not create any long term issues. It can, however, develop into a medical issue called GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. While infrequent cases of heartburn often dissipate on their own or with the help of over the counter medications, a doctor should be consulted when it occurs more than twice per week, does not respond to medications or if the individual experiences difficulty swallowing.
Like heartburn, angina symptoms include pain in the chest, but are accompanied by a pressing or squeezing sensation and may spread to the arms, back, shoulders, neck and jaw as well. The left arm in particular is a sign of a serious problem. The pain may become excruciatingly severe as it branches out to the outlying areas of the body. There may also be feelings of nausea, fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness and inability to breathe normally. Excessive sweating that erupts during this painful episode is an additional symptom of angina. Since every moment counts in cases of heart attack, it is important not to second guess symptoms such as these; a trip to the emergency room is definitely warranted and could very well save your life.
Most people are aware that chest pain signals an issue that certainly requires attention. Being knowledgeable of the symptoms of each condition will help the individual to recognize when the problem is more than the common heartburn. Angina symptoms may be similar in some ways, but carry additional sensations that are distinctive of the condition and should alert the individual to immediately seek medical attention. By doing so, your own or someone else’s life can be saved.