So it’s the holidays and you find your December calendar booked with social engagements revolving around big dinners and extravagant cocktail parties. For millions of Americans, many of these festive evenings will result in significant pain. Heartburn, the primary symptom of reflux disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be so painful that many Americans confuse it for symptoms of a heart attack. Dr. Kevin Dolehide, gastroenterologist at MetroSouth Medical Center in Blue Island, Illinois offers a few tips on how to tell the difference.
Common Symptoms of Heart Burn
1) Chest pain/pressure & burning sensation
2) Nausea
3) Difficulty or pain when swallowing
4) Some relief with antacids
5) Symptoms present after a large meal, especially those full of foods typically associated with heartburn. (Link to press release on common foods).
Common Symptoms of Heart Attack
1) Central chest pain/pressure
2) Discomfort in the neck, shoulders, or arms
3) Cold sweats
4) Nausea or vomiting
5) Pain between the shoulder blades
Unfortunately the symptoms are very similar which explains the large number of patients frequently seen in the MetroSouth Medical Center emergency room who are relieved to find out that they are not having a heart attack.
Dr. Dolehide, notes however, that heartburn can have serious consequences if left untreated. Persistent acid reflux or GERD can result in serious problems, including esophagitis, esophageal bleeding and ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures, and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.
The MetroSouth Heartburn Clinic is designed to treat patients who have not found relief with over the counter solutions. Advanced medicines and traditional and incisionless surgery are among the options offered by the experts at the MetroSouth Heartburn Clinic. Patients who would like additional information should call 855-4REFLUX
