Heartburn Vs. Angina

Many conditions can cause chest discomfort or pain.
 Other than heartburn or angina, causes of chest pain include:
 
 
Heartburn or angina symptoms can be easily confused because both can cause pain in the middle of the chest.
 
Pain and discomfort in the chest associated with heartburn is often described as a burning sensation that may move up into the neck. Other heartburn symptoms may include:
 
  • A sensation of food or liquid coming up into the throat or mouth (regurgitation), especially when bending over or lying down
  • Bitter or acid taste in the mouth.
     
However, one of the main differences between heartburn and angina symptoms is that with angina, a person may also have:
 
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Lightheadedness
  • Weakness.
     
These symptoms of angina are not common with heartburn.
 
(Click Heartburn or Angina Symptoms? for more information on how to tell the difference between the two conditions.)
 
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD