Heartburn/GERD Health Center

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Heartburn - Emergencies

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Step Two

Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

Severe upper abdominal pain

Chest pain that is crushing or squeezing, feels like a heavy weight on your chest, or occurs with any other symptoms of a heart attack. Note: Symptoms of a heart attack and symptoms of heartburn may feel the same. It is important to consider all your other symptoms to determine whether you have a more serious problem.

Signs of shock

If the person becomes unconscious, see the topic Dealing With Emergencies.

If emergency medical personnel are not going to arrive soon and the person is awake, alert, not vomiting, and not allergic to aspirin, have the person chew and swallow one adult-strength (325 mg) or 2 to 4 low-dose (81 mg) aspirin before emergency medical personnel such as paramedics arrive. Be sure to tell emergency personnel that aspirin has been taken.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 01, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.