How to Tell a Heart Attack from Heartburn

Heart attack pain feels like pressure or squeezing in the center of the chest, and may radiate to the arm, jaw, or back. It often comes with shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, and a sense of doom. Heartburn feels like a burning sensation in the upper chest, gets worse when lying down, and is typically relieved by antacids. The overlap can be confusing — some heart attacks present as mild indigestion. When in doubt, always call emergency services. It's far better to feel embarrassed at the hospital than to die at home convincing yourself it's just heartburn.