Heartburn Symptoms

One of the most common heartburn symptoms is chest pain. This pain often starts in the middle of the chest and can move up into the throat. Chest pain can also be a signal of a heart attack, so it is important to call your doctor or 911 if you are unsure whether you are experiencing heartburn or a heart attack.

An Overview of Heartburn Signs and Symptoms

Heartburn is the result of stomach acid "refluxing" back into the esophagus. This acid reflux irritates the esophagus and causes heartburn symptoms.
 
The most common symptom of heartburn is pain or discomfort that starts in the middle of the chest and can then move up through the throat. This heartburn pain can be frequent, constant, and/or severe.
 
Heartburn can be made worse by large meals, lying down, and bending over.
 

Is It Heartburn or a Heart Attack?

Chest pain is a symptom that puts fear into many people. It can be a sign of something very serious and even life threatening, such as a heart attack. Chest pain is also a possible heartburn symptom. There are some differences between these two types of chest pain. However, if you are unsure whether you are experiencing heartburn or a heart attack, call your doctor or 911. Immediate action can save lives.
 
(Click Heartburn or Heart Attack? to learn about the differences between these two conditions.)
 

Differences Between GERD and Heartburn Symptoms

Many people are familiar with the terms "gastroesophageal reflux disease" and "GERD." However, some people aren't aware of the differences between GERD and heartburn. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD, but there are other symptoms a person may experience. These symptoms can include an acidic or sore taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation), shortness of breath, or coughing.
 
(Click GERD Symptoms to learn more about this condition.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
 
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