Chest Pain or Heartburn: How to Tell the Difference
Chest discomfort can be alarming — and for good reason. While it may simply be heartburn from acid reflux, it can also signal a serious heart condition. Knowing the difference between the two can save time, reduce anxiety, and in some cases, even save your life.
At 14 Street Medical Arts, our experienced team of cardiologists and gastroenterologists uses advanced diagnostic testing to determine whether your chest pain is heart-related or digestive in nature.
Understanding Chest Pain
Chest pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pressure or tightness. It is often caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle or other cardiac problems.
Common heart-related causes include:
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Angina (temporary lack of blood flow to the heart)
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Heart attack (blockage in a coronary artery)
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Pericarditis (inflammation around the heart)
Symptoms suggesting a cardiac cause include:
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Pressure, heaviness, or squeezing in the chest
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Pain radiating to the jaw, neck, shoulder, or arm
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Shortness of breath
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Sweating, nausea, or dizziness
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Pain that worsens with exertion or stress
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Testing for Cardiac Causes
At 14 Street Medical Arts, our cardiology team performs comprehensive evaluations, including:
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Echocardiogram: A noninvasive ultrasound of the heart that shows how the heart chambers and valves function. It helps identify structural abnormalities, valve disease, or signs of heart failure.
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Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of your heart to detect arrhythmias or evidence of a previous heart attack.
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Stress Testing: Evaluates how your heart performs during physical exertion.
These tests provide a clear picture of heart function and help distinguish cardiac pain from other conditions.
Understanding Heartburn
Heartburn, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. The burning sensation in the chest can mimic cardiac pain, which is why it’s often confusing.
Typical signs of heartburn include:
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A burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen
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Pain that occurs after eating or when lying down
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Relief with antacids
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A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Heartburn pain is usually felt just behind the breastbone and does not radiate to the arm or jaw. However, if symptoms are frequent or severe, further evaluation is recommended.
Testing for Digestive Causes
To rule out gastrointestinal issues, 14 Street Medical Arts offers advanced imaging and diagnostic testing, including:
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Abdominal Ultrasound: A safe, noninvasive test that visualizes your liver, gallbladder, and stomach area to detect problems such as gallstones, gastritis, or inflammation.
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Upper Endoscopy (EGD): If needed, this procedure allows direct visualization of the esophagus and stomach lining to identify ulcers or reflux damage.
These tests help determine whether your discomfort is due to acid reflux, gallbladder disease, or another abdominal condition.
When to See a Doctor
It’s not always easy to tell chest pain from heartburn, and both deserve medical evaluation. Seek care immediately if you experience:
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Sudden or severe chest pain
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Shortness of breath or dizziness
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Pain radiating to the neck, jaw, or left arm
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Nausea, cold sweats, or fainting
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Persistent burning pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication
Prompt testing can distinguish between heart and digestive causes, ensuring you receive the right treatment.
Why Choose 14 Street Medical Arts
At 14 Street Medical Arts, we provide comprehensive evaluation of chest pain through a multidisciplinary approach that includes cardiology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine.
Our on-site services include:
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Echocardiogram and ECG for heart evaluation
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Abdominal Ultrasound and GI testing for digestive causes
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Same-day appointments and rapid results
Our goal is to give every patient clarity, comfort, and the best possible care in one convenient location.
14 Street Medical Arts — Where advanced diagnostics meet compassionate care.
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t ignore chest pain or heartburn. Schedule a visit with 14 Street Medical Arts today to get the answers you need and the care you deserve.
Call our office or book your appointment online.
