GERD Vs. Angina

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease and happens when stomach acid makes its way back up the food pipe. Angina is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The two have very similar symptoms, but are entirely different conditions.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of GERD include a burning sensation in the chest, difficulty breathing, dry cough, regurgitation of food, and the sensation of a lump in the throat. The symptoms of angina include chest pain, nausea, shortness of breath, anxiety, dizziness, and sweating.

Causes

• GERD happens when you have frequent acid reflux, which is stomach acid or bile making its way back up the throat. Angina is most commonly caused by coronary artery disease.

Risk Factors

• People that are obese, asthmatic, diabetic, or pregnant have a increased risk of developing GERD, as do smokers. Angina shares some of the same risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, and obesity. However, angina can also present itself if you are old, don't exercise, or have high stress.

Complications

• GERD can be responsible for the narrowing of the esophagus which, in turn, could lead to cancerous conditions. Angina can be a precursor to a heart attack.

Significance

• Angina and GERD are two completely different conditions, but both can be signs of a very serious condition or a precursor to serious complications.