What does heartburn feel like? Signs it's not a heart attack
Written by the editorial staff writer at Hola.
Medically reviewed by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

Contents

How will I know if I have heartburn? Signs and symptoms
Heartburn is usually characterised by the following signs and symptoms:- Burning sensation in the chest
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of food
- Nausea
- Burping
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough
- Stomach bloating
Also read: Understanding gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in adults
What feels like heartburn but is not?
Several conditions may mimic the feeling of heartburn without being caused by acid reflux, including- Esophageal spasm: This happens when esophageal muscles contract irregularly, resulting in chest pain similar to heartburn. It can be triggered by stress, drinking cold beverages, or particular foods.
- Angina: Angina refers to chest pain due to limited blood circulation to the heart. It may resemble heartburn but is more severe and associated with shortness of breath, dizziness, or perspiration.
- Peptic ulcers: Ulcers that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine can lead to a burning sensation like heartburn. The pain may arise between meals and can be relieved by food or antacids.
- Gastritis: Stomach lining inflammation can cause a burning pain in the upper abdomen or chest, which may be confused with heartburn. It is usually accompanied by nausea, bloating, or a feeling of fullness.
- Biliary colic: Gallbladder pain, especially in the presence of gallstones, can cause pain in the upper abdomen or chest, often mistaken for heartburn.
- Panic attacks: Anxiety and panic disorders can lead to chest pressure, a burning sensation, and breathlessness, which may resemble heartburn but they are often accompanied by feelings of unease or dread, which are not typical of heartburn
Experiencing these symptoms? Speak with a doctor within 15 minutes.
Heartburn vs. heart attack
While heartburn and heart attack symptoms can feel similar, they are distinct conditions with different causes and risks. Here's how to differentiate between them:Heartburn
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Individuals may experience a burning sensation in the chest, which often manifests after consuming food, lying down, or bending forward. Typically, the discomfort is alleviated with the use of antacids or by maintaining an upright posture. Additionally, this condition may present with a sour taste in the mouth or the regurgitation of food.Heart attack
A heart attack is characterised by diminished blood flow to the heart, resulting from a blockage. Symptoms include a feeling of pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest, which can extend to the arms, neck, back, or jaw. Accompanying symptoms may consist of nausea, shortness of breath, sweating, or dizziness. Unlike heartburn, the pain associated with a heart attack does not improve with antacids or by changing one’s position. It is important to note that some heart attacks may present with atypical symptoms, such as only shortness of breath, nausea, or jaw pain, especially in women, elderly individuals, or those with diabetes. Any unexplained or severe chest discomfort should prompt immediate medical attention.Heartburn vs. indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion are related to digestive issues, but they have distinct symptoms and causes. Here's how to tell them apart:Heartburn
Heartburn is characterised by a burning sensation in the chest, resulting from the reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus. This condition typically manifests following the consumption of food, the act of lying down or bending over. Individuals may experience a sour taste in the mouth or throat as a consequence. Relief is commonly achieved through the use of antacids or by avoiding specific trigger foods.Indigestion
Indigestion serves as a broad descriptor for discomfort or pain experienced in the upper abdomen after eating. Symptoms associated with indigestion may encompass bloating, nausea, a sensation of excessive fullness, or burping. This condition is often precipitated by overeating, consuming food too rapidly, or the ingestion of fatty, spicy, or acidic items. Indigestion may or may not present alongside symptoms of heartburn.What lifestyle changes can I make to manage heartburn?
- Consume smaller, more frequent meals: Large meals can exert additional pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. Instead, it is advisable to consume smaller meals at regular intervals throughout the day to mitigate this risk.
- Refrain from consuming trigger foods: Certain types of food may provoke heartburn. These include, but are not limited to, spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, as well as fatty or fried items. It is essential to identify and avoid personal food triggers.
- Avoid reclining post-meal: It is recommended that individuals refrain from lying down for a minimum of 2 to 3 hours after eating. This practice can assist in preventing stomach acid from rising into the esophagus.
- Elevate the head during sleep: Raising the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches may reduce the likelihood of acid flowing back into the esophagus while sleeping.
- Maintain an appropriate weight: Excess body weight, particularly in the abdominal region, can place added pressure on the stomach and contribute to acid reflux. Reducing weight may alleviate heartburn symptoms.
- Opt for loose-fitting attire: Wearing tight clothing, particularly around the waist, can increase pressure on the stomach, potentially resulting in acid reflux. Therefore, it is advisable to choose loose and comfortable clothing.
- Abstain from smoking: Smoking has been shown to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which facilitates the backflow of acid into the esophagus. Ceasing smoking can lead to an improvement in heartburn symptoms.
- Ensure sufficient hydration: It is important to consume an adequate amount of water throughout the day to help neutralise stomach acid and support the digestive process.
Also read: 20 Natural Home Remedies for Heartburn to Alleviate Its Symptoms
When to seek a GP appointment?
It is advisable to schedule an appointment with a general practitioner if symptoms of heartburn continue despite modifications in lifestyle or the use of over-the-counter medications. Recurrent episodes of heartburn, defined as occurring more than twice a week, or an increase in severity may indicate the presence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GORD) or another underlying medical condition.Additionally, it is imperative to seek medical attention if one experiences challenges in swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or severe pain that disrupts daily life. These signs could indicate more serious conditions, such as bleeding ulcers or oesophageal damage. Symptoms such as heartburn accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness may be indicative of a serious condition, including a heart attack. Individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disorders or those who are currently pregnant should prioritise consulting a general practitioner to explore safe treatment alternatives. Timely medical intervention can mitigate the risk of complications and enhance the overall management of the condition.
How can telehealth appointments help?
Telehealth appointments present an efficient means of addressing symptoms associated with heartburn without the necessity of a physical clinic visit, which is especially beneficial during pregnancy. Through a virtual consultation with an online doctor, a healthcare provider can assess the symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and suggest safe treatment options.This method not only conserves time but also minimises the risk of exposure to potential infections, rendering it particularly suitable for expectant mothers. Furthermore, doctors are equipped to offer advice on managing discomfort at home, strategies for preventing recurrence, and the safe use of over-the-counter medications.
In situations deemed necessary, instant scripts or a doctor’s certificate may be transmitted directly to the designated pharmacy. Telehealth facilitates the delivery of prompt and professional medical guidance while allowing individuals to remain in the comfort of their homes, thereby serving as a practical alternative for managing non-emergency health issues such as heartburn. While telehealth appointments are convenient, some cases may require an in-person examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of symptoms.
Hola Health offers a comprehensive range of telehealth services designed to enhance healthcare accessibility in Australia. Their services include:
- Instant consult: Patients can consult with Australian registered medical practitioners 24/7 via video calls, often within 15 minutes.
- Medical Certificates: Users can obtain valid medical certificates for work, school, or carer responsibilities online, with approval from accredited practitioners typically within 15 minutes. Whether it is for the same day or multi day medical certificate, an AHPRA-registered health practitioner can help you with a quick doctor’s note.
- Online Prescriptions: Patients can receive online prescriptions and have medications delivered directly to their homes, often within two hours.
- Referrals: Hola Health facilitates referrals to specialists as needed during consultations.
- COVID Antivirals: The service provides access to COVID-19 antiviral medications through online consultations.
- Mental Health Care Plans: Patients can receive tailored mental health care plans that is bulk billing from qualified GPs as part of their telehealth services.
Moreover, telehealth facilitates the provision of timely medical advice, which may serve to avert the exacerbation of symptoms. It is an optimal solution for individuals with demanding schedules, those who encounter mobility challenges, or residents in remote locations. A general practitioner can oversee your condition, make necessary adjustments to treatment plans, and offer direction regarding the appropriate timing for in-person consultations, thereby ensuring effective management while you remain in the comfort of your home. While telehealth can provide valuable initial guidance, some cases may require physical examination or diagnostic tests, such as an endoscopy or imaging, to confirm the cause of symptoms.
Heartburn is a common ailment that can resemble a heart attack because of similarity in symptoms. However, key variations in the characteristics, duration, and triggers of the pain can help differentiate between the two. If you are unsure, it’s best to seek medical advice to rule out a heart attack and guarantee proper treatment.
Feeling sick and unsure why? Speak with a GP online in 15 minutes.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
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For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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