It might not make sense that your stomach pain is a heart attack, even though indigestion or acid reflux is also called heartburn. You sometimes feel pain in your chest during indigestion because the acid from your stomach moves up into your esophagus, which is just under your breastbone. Your pain from heartburn could be a heart attack if you feel pain in your neck, jaw, back, or one of your arms. You might also experience shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweats. While chest pain is a common symptom of a heart attack, not everyone feels chest pain, particularly women (per the American Heart Association).
On the other hand, indigestion isn’t felt in your arms, neck, or back, and you might feel a burning sensation in your throat. Indigestion also feels worse if you lie down. A stomach ache, acid reflux, or indigestion often follows eating a heavy meal or certain foods like garlic, onion, chocolate, or mint. Alcohol can also stir up indigestion.
