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Actor Aasif Khan, best known for his impeccable work in OTT series’ Panchayat and Mirzapur recently addressed concerns about his health. The 37-year-old actor cleared the air and reported that he did not suffer a heart attack. In a video message that became immediately viral, Khan explained that he had not suffered a cardiac event, but was instead dealing with a severe case of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), i.e. acid reflux.
The Panchayat actor opened up about his medical condiiton in an interview with Etimes and assured his fans that he now doing well. Khan said, "So first of all, I want to clarify—it was not a heart attack. It was gastroesophageal reflux disease. The symptoms felt like a heart attack, but I’m totally fit." The doctors have advised him to undergo a diet change, avoiding certain food types.
ALSO READ: Panchayat Actor Aasif Khan Hospitalised After Heart Attack, Says He’s ‘Grateful to Be Alive’
The Misleading Symptoms of GERD![GERD Symptoms]()
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Earlier this week, the Pataal Lok actor was reported to have suffered a heart attack and was admitted to Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. And while the actor took to his Instagram to thank all his fans and well-wishers who outpoured their love and blessings during this time, Khan has now come out with recent health updates.
However, the experience of Asif Khan has shed light on the medical misunderstanding commonly made in the case, whereby symptoms of GERD are associated with those of a heart attack. The two conditions may lead to chest pain, tightness, and burning pain, and in most cases, it is difficult to define the two without proper assessment.
GERD happens when the stomach acid moves up the esophagus, resulting in irritation. This acid reflux may cause:
- A chest burning (heartburn)
- Pain in the chest that grows during or after eating, or when lying down
- Bad mouth taste
- Burping and bloating
- Hard time swallowing
The problem? These are symptoms that usually resemble cardiac pain, particularly when it is severe and chronic.
However, these symptoms can be curbed by dietary and lifestyle changes, and for Aaasif Khan, this is the ideal way too. During the interview, Khan said, “I’ve been told to stop eating dal baati, limit my non-veg, and work out more. I don’t think it should impact my work. Something or the other happens in everyone’s life. People move on.”
ALSO READ: Can Acid Reflux Be Silent? How NOT To Confuse It From An Allergy
| Symptoms | GERD | Heart Attack |
| Chest Pain | Burning, sharp, worse after eating | Pressure, squeezing, tightness |
| Location | Mid-chest or upper abdomen | Centre/left side of chest may radiate to the arm/jaw |
| Trigger | Spicy/fatty foods, lying down | Physical exertion, stress |
| Relief | Antacids, sitting upright | Nitrogyrocine, emergency care |
| Other Symptoms | Acid reflux, bloating, nausea | Sweating, breathlessness, dizziness |
The Symptoms of Heart Attack![Heart Attack symptoms]()
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It is not the only case of Asif Khan. A study published in the National Library of Medicine shows that over 60% of patients who have non-cardiac chest pains actually experience GERD.
However, self-diagnosis of chest pain is not encouraging, even when you think it is due to acidity.
ALSO READ: Signs Your Digestive Issues Are More Than Just Indigestion
When To Seek Help?
You need to seek medical attention and visit a doctor or go to the ER in case you feel:
- Pain in the chest that travels to the arm, back, neck or jaw.
- Breathing problems
- Chills or Heavy sweating.
- Painful nausea and vomiting
- Non-improving pain with antacids
However, when these symptoms follow the intake of food, improve with antacids, and are not associated with breathlessness or dizziness, then it may be acid reflux. Nevertheless, any chest pains, as well as any new or strange ones, need to be tested by a specialist.
ALSO READ: Can Intermittent Fasting Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms? Here's What A Gastroenterologist Has To Say
Takeaway: Regular Checkups Are Necessary
The candid nature of Asif Khan to speak out about his health scare served to dispel rumours and possibly help other people who are facing a similar issue. As for GERD, it can be overcome by changing lifestyles, controlling diets, and taking medications. But heart-related problems require urgent medical care. When experiencing heartburn or chest pain, do not take chances. Your physical symptoms are worth considering, and allow an expert to check your symptoms.