Heartburn results from acid reflux, as stomach acid rises up into the esophagus, causing burning pain in the chest and in the throat. The symptoms may also include a bitter taste in the throat or mouth from the acid contents. The problem stems from a weakened esophageal muscle that does not close tightly to keep acid in the stomach from flowing back up after eating. Heartburn happens occasionally to some people. The symptoms occur more often in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
Effects
Typical heartburn symptoms from acid reflux include burning sensations in the chest behind the breastbone usually after eating, the Cleveland Clinic explains. The chest pain can last from a few minutes to several hours. Pain often occurs while bending over or lying down after eating. Feelings of food being stuck in the middle of the chest may also be experienced.
Misconceptions
The chest pain from acid reflux can be similar to symptoms of a heart attack. Older people and people overweight may have these symptoms, which makes them think of a heart attack. People should not rule out acid reflux when experiencing chest pain, but should still seek emergency care.
Indication
Some people may experience chest pain without the other symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn, such as burning sensations in the throat, according to ScienceDaily. The role of serious chest pain in acid reflux is often overlooked, researchers at Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, discovered. They studied 31 patients admitted to an emergency room for chest pain and found that more than half had indications of acid reflux. More women than men were rushed to the emergency room for chest pain unrelated to heart conditions.
Considerations
Antacids provide quick relief from heartburn and the pain does not usually radiate to the shoulders, neck or arms as it does with a heart attack. Chest pain from angina or heart attack may also include breaking out in a cold sweat, a feeling of fullness or dull pressure in the center of the chest along with pain. The chest pain may become worse. Lightheadedness, dizziness and shortness of breath may occur with a heart attack.
Other Causes
Chest pain symptoms similar to those of acid reflux and heartburn may also indicate other health conditions, such as a muscle spasm in the esophagus or a gallbladder attack, MayoClinic.com notes. Gallbladder attacks can cause pain that spreads to the chest and may include aching in the abdomen or nausea, especially after a large meal. In this case, the pain may spread to the shoulders, neck or arms. Medical examinations can rule out conditions other than acid reflux.
