Heartburn and heart disease are not related, but many of the symptoms of heartburn are similar to those experienced during a heart attack. So it is important to know the symptoms of heartburn in detail so when the time comes you are able to differentiate between heartburn and a heart attack. Frequent heartburn that does not respond to over the counter heartburn medicines is cause for concern for many reasons. Heartburn contrary to its name has nothing to do with your heart.
Frequent heartburn is defined by most practitioners as heartburn that is experienced many times a week. In this case the chest pain is usually accompanied by a burning sensation. Other symptoms of heart attack that are not typically associated with frequent heartburn include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and sweating. Chronic or frequent heartburn that does not respond to over the counter heartburn medicines should be evaluated by your physician. Heartburn chest pain occurs when stomach acid that is normally confined to the stomach by muscles in the esophagus flows back up into the esophagus. You may feel the burning sensation in your stomach, the center of your chest or the back of your throat. Most over the counter heartburn medicines are designed for occasional use and should relieve heartburn chest pain and the burning sensation. Frequent heartburn may be related to the foods you eat, the beverages you drink or your lifestyle. Stress, obesity and overeating can all lead to frequent heartburn. In cases of frequent heartburn over the counter medications are not usually effective. These cases should be treated by prescription medication given by the specialist.