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Heartburn Angina Symptoms

The symptoms of heartburn and indigestion can mimic those of angina. The burning sensation that starts behind or directly below the breastbone (sternum) is heartburn, but pains to the chest, which are caused by a lack of blood flow to the heart is definitely angina. It’s very important to be able tell the difference between the two as the sensations can be very similar.

Angina can be an indication of heart disease or a sign of a heart attack and therefore requires medical attention. Heartburn, in mild cases, doesn’t typically require medical attention, and it’s rarely an urgent situation. Heartburn, while not serious, is an inconvenience and discomfort for those who experience it. It can also lead to more serious conditions if episodes occur frequently over long periods of time. The stomach acid, for instance, can cause ulcer damage in the esophagus. Frequent heartburn has been attributed to esophageal cancer.

Heartburn Symptoms - What Does Heartburn Feel Like? And How Long Does Heartburn Last?

The best way to describe heartburn, is that you will feel a burning sensation either in the middle of the chest or direcly below the breastbone. This burning typically responds to antacids and it doesn’t radiate to the arms or shoulders, although the pain can travel up the neck. Due to the fact that heartburn can cause an acid build up in the body, it is likely that you will get a sour salty taste in the mouth which very often will turn into the regurgitation of your food.

Heartburn is caused by the malfunctioning of the lower esophageal sphincter. To differentiate between the two, you need to understand the physiological process first. This can be really helpful. The contents of the stomach are prevented from travlling up the esophagus by the lower esophageal sphincter, as this acts like a lid. Stomach acids can leak out into the esophagus if the sphincter does not close properly. This in turn creates the burning sensation that is classic to that of heartburn.

Angina Symptoms

Angina is pain in the chest, less like a burning, that frequently radiates down the arms and into the shoulders. Pressure and tightness of the chest is also another feeling that is associated to angina. Shortness of breath, lightheadedness, dizziness are all factors that can accompany angina. These symptoms are a definite sign between angina and heartburn and will help you to distinguish the difference.

Patients experiencing angina may experience heartburn or indigestion as a symptom. Heartburn is rarely the only symptom of angina, so patients experiencing heartburn accompanied by other symptoms of angina should seek medical attention to ensure they are not suffering from a serious condition.
Angina can occur as a result of stress or immediately following an emotional outburst. While stress is said to be a contributing factor to heartburn as well, angina can be identified if it immediately follows a highly stressful situation and comes on suddenly.

Visit our website to learn more about differentiating heartburn and angina symptoms, so you can take proper control of your health.