Heart disease and acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, can have similar symptoms, sometimes leaving people unsure which one is causing the problem. In acid reflux, stomach acid rises into the esophagus and causes the discomfort that people call "heartburn." A severe heartburn episode that causes chest pain can be scary, but there are some ways to tell acid reflux apart from heart disease symptoms.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
Acid reflux symptoms include a burning sensation in the throat and sometimes in the chest, difficulty in swallowing or a feeling of pressure in the stomach area. There also may be coughing, wheezing, a small amount of stomach acid regurgitated and a bitter taste in the mouth. The symptoms usually occur soon after eating, or when lying down after a big meal. Eating too much or bending over after eating can aggravate acid reflux.
Heart Disease Symptoms
Cardiac pain often occurs after or during exercise or a strong emotional upset. Acid reflux symptoms do not occur because of increased physical activity. Numbness or tingling in the arms or pain that goes from the chest into the arms or neck also are signs of a heart attack, as is shortness of breath for no apparent reason. Chest pain that occurs when getting up in the morning also can be a sign of heart disease. These symptoms are not signs of acid reflux.
Warning
A person can have acid reflux disease and heart disease at the same time. If you are taking medication for acid reflux and it isn't working, see your physician to rule out heart disease. If you have acid reflux disease but begin having any of the symptoms listed for a heart attack, seek emergency treatment. It is much better to go in for an unnecessary emergency room visit than it is to ignore a heart attack.
Acid Reflux Risk Factors
Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus becomes weakened, which allows stomach acid to travel up into the person's throat. Pregnant women are more prone to this condition during the last two trimesters, as the fetus is crowding the stomach. Being overweight often aggravates acid reflux, and cigarette smoking weakens the sphincter and can cause the condition.
Possible Solutions for Acid Reflux
If you have acid reflux, try elevating the head of your bed. This can be accomplished simply by arranging your pillows so your upper body is elevated to a 15-degree angle. Losing weight and quitting smoking can relieve acid reflux symptoms and can also decrease the risk of heart disease.
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