Most of us have had heartburn at one time or another. Heartburn normally starts about 30 to 45 minutes after eating and is generally triggered by acidic or greasy foods. Heartburn usually feels like a sharp burning sensation in the center of the chest near the breastbone. The pain can radiate all the way up the neck. But did you know that the chest pain associated with a heart attack can feel very similar to heartburn pain? It can be difficult to tell the difference. Don’t ignore heartburn symptoms. Here’s what you need to know:

IF you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

• Sudden pressure, or squeezing or crushing pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes.
• Pain that spreads to the back, neck, jaw, shoulders or arms—especially the left arm.
• Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea.
• Pressure or tightness in the chest during physical activity or when you're under emotional stress.

IF you have any history of heart problems or have had a previous heart attack, never ignore heartburn symptoms. It’s better to overreact than to do nothing.

IF you experience heartburn for the first time and you have any of the risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of heart problems, or you are overweight or smoke, seek prompt medical help.

IS there a pattern to when and how often you get heartburn? Does Mexican food or a glass of orange juice always give you heartburn? If you experience heartburn and you haven’t eaten any foods that can normally trigger it, see a doctor. Foods that commonly cause heartburn include spicy foods, coffee, soda, alcohol, citrus, and chocolate.

IF you get it frequently, don’t ignore run-of-the-mill heartburn. When you experience heartburn, stomach acid moves up into the esophagus and causes irritation, and can harm your esophagus. Heartburn also can indicate other problems like gall stones or stomach ulcers. If your heartburn is associated with pain or difficulty in swallowing, loss of appetite, or vomiting blood, see a doctor.

IF an episode doesn’t resolve after taking heartburn relief medications, see a doctor. Heartburn should subside fairly quickly. Antacids should have an immediate effect; H-2 blockers like Zantac or Tagamet may take about 30 minutes to take effect.

Chest pain can be a warning sign of a heart attack. Knowing the difference between heartburn and something more serious may save your life.