A burning sensation in the chest is often associated with heartburn, but it can also be caused by other medical conditions.
According to gastroenterologists who spoke to Prevention, there are several warning signs to watch for, as some of these conditions require prompt treatment.
Gallstones
Gallstones can cause discomfort in the upper abdomen, particularly after eating.
The symptoms can therefore resemble heartburn, even though the underlying cause is entirely different.
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Pain can occur in the middle of the abdomen
Many people associate gallstones with pain on the right side of the abdomen. However, the pain often occurs in the upper central part of the abdomen, making it difficult to distinguish from heartburn.
Bloating can be a warning sign
Gallstones can also cause bloating, belching, acid regurgitation, and a feeling of excessive fullness after eating.
These symptoms are also common in people with acid reflux.
A sour taste in the mouth may indicate heartburn
People experiencing heartburn often feel a burning sensation behind the breastbone.
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If the discomfort is accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth or acid regurgitation, it may indicate acid reflux.
Stomach ulcers can cause similar symptoms
Stomach ulcers are another condition frequently mistaken for heartburn. Both conditions can cause pain in the upper abdomen.
The location of the pain can provide a clue
With stomach ulcers, the pain is typically concentrated in the upper abdomen.
Heartburn, on the other hand, is more commonly experienced as a burning sensation behind the breastbone.
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An endoscopy may be necessary
It can be difficult to determine whether abdominal pain is caused by a stomach ulcer or heartburn.
According to gastroenterologists, an endoscopy is necessary to confirm whether a stomach ulcer is present.
Blood in vomit or stool requires immediate medical attention
If the pain is accompanied by vomiting blood or blood in the stool, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
These symptoms may indicate a serious medical condition.
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Angina can feel like heartburn
Angina, also known as angina pectoris, occurs when the heart does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood.
The condition can cause chest pain that is mistakenly attributed to heartburn.
Physical activity can trigger the pain
If chest discomfort occurs during physical exertion, it may be a sign of a heart problem.
This is particularly concerning if the pain is accompanied by shortness of breath, palpitations, or dizziness.
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A heart attack can go unrecognised
Some people mistake the symptoms of a heart attack for ordinary heartburn. This can delay essential treatment and, in the worst cases, have life-threatening consequences.
Oesophageal disorders may be responsible
Inflammation of the oesophagus and disorders affecting its muscular movements can also cause symptoms resembling heartburn.
Some of these conditions may also lead to difficulty swallowing.
Certain medications can irritate the oesophagus
Oesophageal irritation can be caused by certain pain medications, as well as potassium or iron supplements.
The resulting discomfort may resemble the symptoms of acid reflux.
Lung conditions can cause chest pain
Digestive problems are not the only conditions that can cause a burning or painful sensation in the chest.
Lung diseases can also cause discomfort that may be mistaken for heartburn.
These symptoms require emergency medical attention
Severe or persistent chest pain should be taken seriously, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or feeling faint.
The same applies if the pain spreads to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder. In these situations, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Frequent heartburn should be investigated
Although occasional heartburn is common, gastroenterologists recommend consulting a doctor if symptoms become more frequent, worsen, or interfere with sleep and quality of life.
This also applies if you frequently need over-the-counter medication to relieve the discomfort.
A history of heartburn does not rule out other conditions
Having experienced acid reflux in the past does not necessarily mean that new chest pain has the same cause.
According to experts, new, unusual, or concerning symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor, particularly if you have an increased risk of heart disease.
This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.