You’ve indulged in treats at a family gathering when suddenly, chest pain strikes. Is it just heartburn—or something more serious, like a heart problem? Knowing the difference could be life-saving, says Dr. Maya Balakrishnan, an associate professor of gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine.
Unfortunately, the risk of both heartburn and cardiovascular issues increases with age. Here’s how to tell them apart and what you can do to protect your health.
Why the Risk Increases as You Age
“As we get older, the muscles that control the esophagus weaken, which increases the risk of stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus,” Dr. Balakrishnan explained in a Baylor news release. “At the same time, aging also raises the risk of cardiovascular disease due to factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.”
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The overlapping symptoms can make it hard to know whether chest pain is coming from your digestive system or your heart. Here’s how to distinguish between heartburn and something more serious.
Heartburn: A Digestive Issue with Clear Triggers
Heartburn is a gastrointestinal condition that typically occurs after eating. It happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest.
Symptoms of Heartburn:
- A burning feeling in the chest, especially after eating
- A metallic or acidic taste in the mouth
- Symptoms triggered by specific foods or lying down too quickly after eating
“It’s typically related to what people are eating or caused when they lie down quickly after a meal,” Balakrishnan noted.
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Common Heartburn Triggers:
- Salty foods
- Spicy foods
- Tomato-based dishes
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Preventing Heartburn:
Dr. Balakrishnan suggests the following tips to reduce your risk of heartburn:
- Avoid trigger foods.
- Eat smaller meals.
- Take a walk after eating to aid digestion.
- Stay upright for at least three to four hours after a meal.
Treating Heartburn:
If heartburn does strike, over-the-counter antacids can help neutralize stomach acid. Prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers, which reduce stomach acid production, may be recommended for more persistent cases.
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When Chest Pain May Be a Heart Issue
While heartburn is uncomfortable, chest pain related to heart problems can be far more dangerous. Cardiovascular issues can range from angina—chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart—to a heart attack, which requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Heart-Related Chest Pain:
- Chest pain that may feel like pressure, squeezing, or tightness
- Pain that can occur during rest or physical exertion
- Pain accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea
Heart-related chest pain doesn’t typically respond to antacids or other heartburn treatments, making it a red flag for a more serious condition.
“We medically call this type of pain angina, which involves problems with the heart, like blood supply,” Balakrishnan said. “These conditions are more serious than heartburn. They are potentially life-threatening and are related to people’s cardiovascular health.”
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How to Know If You’re at Risk for Heart Problems
Certain factors increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, including:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Family history of heart disease
If you experience persistent chest pain—especially if you have risk factors for heart disease—see a doctor immediately.
“It’s important to talk to your doctor about your risk for cardiovascular disease,” Balakrishnan emphasized. “Heart issues are treatable if caught early. Don’t ignore persistent chest pain.”
What to Do if You’re Unsure About Your Chest Pain
If you’re experiencing chest pain and can’t tell if it’s heartburn or something more serious, take these steps:
- Pay attention to triggers. Did the pain start after a large meal or after consuming trigger foods? If yes, it may be heartburn.
- Check for additional symptoms. If you have shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain that spreads to other areas like your arms, neck, or jaw, it could be a heart issue.
- Don’t take chances. If in doubt, seek medical attention. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to heart health.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Ignore Chest Pain
Understanding whether your chest pain is caused by heartburn or a heart problem can make all the difference. While heartburn is uncomfortable, heart-related chest pain can be life-threatening.
Prevent heartburn by avoiding trigger foods and following healthy eating habits. But if you have chest pain that doesn’t go away—or if you have risk factors for heart disease—talk to your doctor right away.
Taking your symptoms seriously could save your life.
