Symptoms · Manhattan Cardiovascular Associates
Heartburn
A burning feeling in your chest may be heartburn from acid reflux. But sometimes that burning feeling is a sign of a heart attack.
Medically reviewed by Michael Ghalchi, MD, FACC · Last reviewed: Pending review
- What it can mean
- Heartburn happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus (food pipe). But a blocked heart artery can also cause a burning feeling in the chest. Many people have had heart attacks because they thought their chest discomfort was heartburn or indigestion.
- When to see a cardiologist
- Book a visit if the burning in your chest doesn’t fit your usual heartburn pattern. If it comes with sweating or trouble breathing, get medical care right away.
- What happens at MCVA
- Dr. Ghalchi sees you himself. The tests you may need are done right here in our office, quickly — sometimes the same day. He reads every study himself. You leave with answers and a written plan.
- Insurance and referrals
- No referral needed. We are in-network with most major plans, and we can check yours before you come.
Same-day appointments available
Heartburn, or the heart?
Heartburn feels like burning behind the breastbone. It happens when the muscle at the entrance to the stomach lets some stomach acid back up into the esophagus.
But that same burning feeling can be a sign that your heart isn’t getting enough blood. A blocked coronary artery can feel like heartburn.
Be careful when the burning:
- Doesn’t fit your usual heartburn pattern
- Comes with sweating
- Comes with trouble breathing
Treatment
The first step is finding out exactly what is causing the discomfort. If it is your heart, Dr. Ghalchi makes a plan to treat the problem and prevent long-term damage to your heart. If it is your digestion, we refer you to a gastroenterologist we trust.
How we find the cause
Tests that may help
Dr. Ghalchi chooses tests based on your symptoms. They are done right here in our office, quickly — sometimes the same day — and he reads every study himself.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)A quick recording of your heart’s electrical activity, done at the visit.
- Stress testShows how your heart works while you exercise.
- EchocardiogramAn ultrasound that shows your heart’s size, pumping and valves.
Questions patients ask
Heartburn: common questions
How can I tell heartburn from a heart problem?
It can be hard to tell. Be careful when the burning doesn’t fit your usual pattern, or comes with sweating or trouble breathing. Tests help find out.
What if it turns out to be my stomach?
If the cause is your digestion, we refer you to a gastroenterologist we trust.
What tests might I need?
Most visits include an ECG. Dr. Ghalchi may also order a stress test. Tests are done here in our office, quickly — sometimes the same day.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book with Dr. Ghalchi directly. We are in-network with most major plans. If you’re not sure about your plan, call us and we’ll check.
Can I be seen today?
Same-day appointments available. You can book online up to 2 hours ahead, or call 212-686-0066. How same-day appointments work
Book
Get it checked. See Dr. Ghalchi.
Choose an open time on Dr. Ghalchi’s calendar, or call and we’ll find one with you. Same-day appointments available, in-network, no referral needed.