Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest, along with a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and throat. It occurs when acid or other stomach contents back up in the esophagus. Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when there is decreased blood oxygen supply to the heart. In most cases, angina occurs as a result of narrowing of the coronary arteries and is a symptom of coronary artery disease.
Chest Pain
A common symptom of both angina and heartburn includes chest pain. Symptoms of heartburn can include a pain beginning in the breastbone area. Symptoms of heartburn typically start behind the breastbone and radiate up towards the neck. Symptoms of angina typically begin with a chest pain behind the breastbone but also includes pressure, squeezing, burning or tightness in the chest. Angina symptoms may also include pain in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder or back that accompany the chest pain.
Reflux
Angina and heartburn symptoms can include indigestion and reflux (when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus). Stomach acids irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn. Heartburn can also be a symptom of angina. Heartburn symptoms include a burning pain with reflux symptoms that becomes worse when lying down or bending over, particularly common after overeating.
Nausea
Signs and symptoms of angina can include nausea or feeling sick to your stomach. Heartburn symptoms typically include a sensation of food coming back into the mouth, which can also make someone feel nauseous. Other symptoms of angina which are accompanied by nausea may include fatigue, shortness of breath, cramping, sweating, weakness and feeling light-headed. Shortness of breath is more common in those with diabetes and in elderly people. Symptoms of angina may be masked by dizziness, weakness and confusion, and typically occur during severe emotional stress or after a heavy meal. Additional symptoms of heartburn besides nausea may include a persistent sore throat, hoarseness, chronic cough, asthma and a feeling of a lump in the chest.
