Mumbai: Panchayat actor Aasif Khan has been discharged from hospital and is recovering after a health scare that initially appeared to be a heart attack. The actor later clarified that he was diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) — a digestive condition that can mimic the symptoms of a cardiac event.
“It was not a heart attack. The symptoms felt like one, but I’m totally fit now,” Aasif confirmed in a statement after undergoing multiple tests to rule out heart disease.
According to reports, Aasif experienced chest pain and fainted after driving from Rajasthan to Mumbai. The discomfort raised immediate alarm, leading him to be rushed to the hospital. He has since been advised to make lifestyle and dietary changes, including reducing spicy and fatty foods like dal baati, cutting down on animal protein, and committing to regular exercise.
GERD vs. Heart Attack: How to Tell the Difference
As Aasif Khan’s case highlights, acid reflux or GERD can closely resemble a heart attack. But knowing the key differences between the two can help prevent panic and allow for timely intervention.
What Is GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)?
GERD is a digestive disorder where stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Common symptoms include:
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- A sensation of a lump in the throat
- Discomfort after heavy meals
- Worse symptoms at night or when lying down
While occasional acid reflux is common, frequent or severe episodes are considered GERD and can damage the esophagus over time.
How to Differentiate GERD from a Heart Attack
According to Dr. Ranjan Shetty, lead cardiologist at Sparsh Hospital, Bengaluru, while heartburn and heart attacks can feel similar, there are key distinctions:
| GERD (Heartburn) | Heart Attack |
|---|---|
| Burning sensation in chest | Crushing chest pain or tightness |
| Triggered after heavy meals | Can occur anytime, even at rest |
| Improves with antacids | Doesn’t subside with antacids |
| May be accompanied by sour taste | Often radiates to arm, neck, or jaw |
| Discomfort stays in chest | May be accompanied by sweating, breathlessness, dizziness |
| Subside within 15–30 minutes | Persists for more than 15 minutes |
| Not usually linked to physical activity | Often triggered by physical or emotional stress |
When to Seek Immediate Help
Always err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing GERD or a heart attack, go to the nearest emergency room. Especially if:
- The pain is new, intense, or feels different
- You’re restless, sweating, nauseated, or short of breath
- You have known heart disease risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, or a family history
Prevention Tips for GERD and Heart Health
- Eat smaller, balanced meals at regular times
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating
- Limit spicy, oily, and acidic foods
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Stay active with regular exercise
- Prioritize routine health checkups
As Aasif Khan recovers, his story serves as a timely reminder of how digestive and cardiac symptoms can overlap — and why it’s essential to know the difference and seek expert advice when in doubt.
Stay informed, stay healthy.
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