Heartburn or heart problems? How to recognise dangerous symptoms
Festive feasts are often accompanied by an abundance of delicious food, and sometimes after such a treat we can feel pain in the chest. But how do you know whether it is just heartburn or a serious heart condition?
Dr Maya Balakrishnan, assistant professor of gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, notes that knowing how to distinguish digestive discomfort from heart problems can save lives.
Age and risks
Unfortunately, the likelihood of both heartburn and heart disease increases with age.
'As we age, the muscles in the oesophagus become weaker, which increases the risk of stomach acid backing up into the oesophagus,' explains Dr Balakrishnan. - Also, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases with age due to factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Signs of heartburn
Heartburn is a gastroenterological problem that usually occurs after overeating. Stomach acid enters the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or a metallic taste in the mouth.
This is often related to what people eat, or the fact that they lie down immediately after eating," notes the doctor.
The main provocateurs of heartburn during the holidays:
- Salty and spicy foods
- Tomato-based foods
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Heartburn Prevention Tips:
- Avoid foods that trigger symptoms
- Eat small meals
- Take a walk after eating
- Stay awake for at least 3-4 hours after eating
If heartburn does occur, you can take over-the-counter antacids or see your doctor for prescription medication to reduce stomach acidity.
When you should be concerned about your heart
Sometimes chest pain can be a sign of serious heart problems, such as angina or even a heart attack.
Symptoms of heart disease:
- Chest pain at rest or with exercise
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
The medical term for such pain is angina pectoris, which is related to insufficient blood supply to the heart, explains Dr Balakrishnan. - These conditions are much more serious than heartburn and are potentially life-threatening.
When to consult a doctor
It is important to consult a doctor to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease. See a specialist if you have persistent chest pain, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes, smoking or high blood pressure.