[32F] Experiencing left-sided chest pain and mild heartburn

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a digestive disorder that affects the ring of muscle between your esophagus and your stomach. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn and chest pain. The pain can be worse when you're hungry and may feel like it's coming from your chest.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery may be needed.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and heartburn. The pain can sometimes feel like it's coming from your chest.

  • Treatment typically involves taking medication to decrease stomach acid. If gastritis is caused by an infection, you may need to take antibiotics.

• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. Symptoms can include a burning pain in your stomach that feels worse when you're hungry.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the lining of your stomach. If the ulcer is caused by a bacterial infection, you may need to take antibiotics.

What you can do

You should make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform tests to determine the cause of your chest pain. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Eat smaller meals.
3. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours.
4. Elevate the head of your bed if you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep.
5. Don't smoke, and if you already do, try to quit.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
• Sudden sharp chest pain with shortness of breath, especially after a long period of inactivity
• Nausea, dizziness, rapid heart rate or rapid breathing, confusion, ashen color, or excessive sweating
• Very low blood pressure or very low heart rate

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.