Introduction
Gastro-oesophageal reflux is the medical name for what most of us refer to as heartburn, although it can also cause other symptoms besides the burning pain in the centre of your chest.
The most common symptom produced by gastro-oesophageal reflux is the burning sensation that can radiate into the throat. Occasionally gastro-oesophageal reflux may cause regurgitation of food into the mouth and a feeling of nausea.
It is important to distinguish heartburn from another common cause of central chest pain. Angina pain is usually brought on by exertion, and is quickly relieved by rest, unlike reflux, so it is usually not difficult to tell one from the other. If you have pain that you think might be angina, you should consult your doctor without delay.
- you develop pain in the centre of your chest or upper abdomen for the first time
- the pain changes in character or becomes more severe than usual
- the pain is brought on by exercise and goes away when you rest
- the pain radiates into your arms or neck
- you experience other symptoms as well as pain, including sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, faintness, passing out or palpitations
- Burping or wind can be caused by angina as well as by heartburn so it is of itself not a clue to the correct diagnosis
