Gastric Symptoms that Cause Chest Pain
Know the gastric symptoms that cause chest pain and differentiate between chest and heart pain. Learn how to manage the gastric-related pain.
Written by
Last updated on 28th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Chest pain can be alarming, and many people immediately think of heart problems. However, gastric (stomach-related) issues can also cause chest pain, often mimicking heart-related conditions. Understanding these symptoms can help you identify the cause and seek the right treatment.
Common Gastric Symptoms That Cause Chest Pain
1. Acid Reflux (GERD)
What is it?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, irritating it.
Symptoms:
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Pain that worsens after eating or lying down
- Difficulty swallowing
Why it happens?
Weakness in the lower oesophageal sphincter (the muscle that keeps stomach acid from rising) allows acid to escape.
2. Gastritis
What is it?
Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection, excessive alcohol, or prolonged use of painkillers.
Symptoms:
- Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen or chest
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating and indigestion
3. Peptic Ulcers
What is it?
Open sores in the stomach lining or small intestine are caused by excess acid or bacterial infection (H. pylori).
Symptoms:
- Sharp or burning pain in the stomach or chest
- Pain that improves or worsens with eating
- Bloating and heartburn
4. Hiatal Hernia
What is it?
Part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through a weakened diaphragm.
Symptoms:
- Chest pain similar to heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Feeling full quickly
5. Oesophageal Spasms
What is it?
Abnormal contractions of the oesophagus cause intense chest pain.
Symptoms:
- Sudden, severe chest pain
- Feeling like something is stuck in the throat
- Pain triggered by hot or cold foods
Consult a gastroenterologist for Personalised Health Advice
How to Differentiate Gastric Pain from Heart Pain
While gastric pain can feel similar to heart pain, there are key differences:
If you experience sudden, severe chest pain with dizziness or shortness of breath, seek emergency medical help immediately—it could be a heart attack.
Managing Gastric-Related Chest Pain
Dietary Changes
- Avoid trigger foods: Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods (citrus, tomatoes, coffee, chocolate).
- Eat smaller meals: Large meals increase stomach pressure.
- Don’t lie down after eating: Wait 2-3 hours before lying down.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight increases abdominal pressure.
- Quit smoking: Smoking weakens the oesophageal sphincter.
- Elevate your head while sleeping: This helps prevent acid reflux.
- Over-the-Counter Medications
- Antacids
- Neutralise stomach acid.
- H2 Blockers
- Reduce acid production.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- Long-term acid control.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor when:
- Symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes.
- You experience frequent vomiting, weight loss, or difficulty swallowing.
- Chest pain is severe or accompanied by dizziness.
Final Thoughts
Gastric-related chest pain is common and often manageable with diet and lifestyle changes. If symptoms persist even after lifestyle changes and frequent vomiting, weight loss also occurs. Do not ignore persistent or severe chest pain; always rule out heart-related causes first. Following these things can help you in proper demarcation.
Consult a gastroenterologist for Personalised Health Advice
Consult a gastroenterologist for Personalised Health Advice
Dr Anshuman Kaushal
Minimal Access/Surgical Gastroenterology
24 Years • MS FNB (MAS) FACS FCLS FIAGES FALS (BARIATRIC) FMAS
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Harish K C
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Bangalore
Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Dr. Jatin Yegurla
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • MD (PGI), DM (AIIMS Delhi), FAGIE (AIIMS Delhi), ESEGH (UK), Gold Medalist
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(600+ Patients)
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Amit Pandita
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
10 Years • MBBS. MD (INTERNAL MEDICINE) DrNB (GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
