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. There are similar sensations between angina and heartburn, but it's very important that you are able to distinguish between the two.

Angina can be an indication of heart disease or a sign of a heart attack and therefore requires medical attention. Heartburn, is rarely an urgent matter in mild cases and does not generally require medical attention. Whilst it's inconvenient and uncomfortable for those who experience it, heartburn is not serious. If episodes are frequent over a long period of time, then more serious conditions can occur. Ulcers, caused by stomach acid can develop in the esophagus along with esophageal cancer which has been attributed to frequent heartburn sufferers.

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

The burning sensation that can be either in the middle of the chest or directly below the breastbone is the best way to describe heartburn. This burning typically responds to antacids and it doesn’t radiate to the arms or shoulders, although the pain can travel up the neck. The regurgitation of food, a salty or sour taste in the mouth is also a symptom of heartburn as it causes acid to build up in the body.

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 lid, as it is known which is provided by the lower esophageal sphincter stops the contents of the stomach from travelling up the esophagus. The burning sensation that is classic to heartburn is brought about via the sphincter not closing propely; the stomach acids leak out into the esophagus, creating the burning feeling.

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. Other accompanying factors to angina are; lightheadedness, dizziness and shortness of breath. The presence of these symptoms is a definite distinction between heartburn and angina symptoms.

Angina sufferers may also experience indigestion or heartburn 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. Heartburn can be bought about via stress, but if the pain comes on suddenly and has followed a very stressful situation then it is more likely to be angina.

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