4. Indigestion or Heartburn – The Digestive Dilemma Signaling Heart Health
Symptom four brings us into somewhat unexpected territory – indigestion or heartburn. While these symptoms are typically associated with gastrointestinal issues, in some cases, they could be signs of heart problems. This can be particularly true for women, who might experience heartburn or indigestion during a heart-related event, such as a heart attack.
Heartburn associated with heart issues can occur due to the overlap of nerve networks between the heart and the stomach. Pain signals from the heart can get misinterpreted by the brain as stomach discomfort, leading to feelings of indigestion or heartburn. This is why it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between heartburn caused by a gastrointestinal issue and heartburn related to a heart condition.
However, heart-related indigestion or heartburn usually doesn’t respond to antacids or other typical heartburn remedies. Additionally, if heartburn or indigestion is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, cold sweats, or chest pain, it may be a sign of a heart problem.
It’s essential to remember that most instances of heartburn or indigestion are not related to heart problems. Nonetheless, if you’re experiencing persistent heartburn or indigestion that doesn’t respond to usual treatments, or if it’s accompanied by other potential heart-related symptoms, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention. (4)
