Is It Heartburn or a Heart Problem? An Expert Explains

You’ve indulged in treats at a family gathering when suddenly, chest pain strikes. Is it just heartburn—or something more serious, like a heart problem? Knowing the difference could be life-saving, says Dr. Maya Balakrishnan, an associate professor of gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine. Unfortunately, the risk of both heartburn and cardiovascular issues increases with age. Here’s how to tell them apart and what you can do to protect your health. Why the Risk Increases as You Age “As we get older, the muscles that control the esophagus weaken, which increases the risk of stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus,” Dr. Balakrishnan explained in a Baylor news release. “At the same time, aging also raises the risk of cardiovascular disease due to factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.” The overlapping symptoms can make it hard to know whether chest pain is coming from your digestive system or your heart. Here’s how to distinguish between heartburn and something more serious. Heartburn: A Digestive Issue with Clear Triggers Heartburn is a gastrointestinal condition that typically occurs after eating. It happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Symptoms of Heartburn: A...