How to differentiate gastric pain from cardiac pain?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been lightheaded, having tightness, pressure, and intermediate sharp chest pains for the past month. I had an electrocardiography (ECG) done and I wanted another opinion. I am an overall healthy 27-year-old female, but I have a family history of heart disease and high blood pressure. At one point, my blood pressure (BP) got up to 158/115 mm of Hg a couple of weeks ago. This past month, my BP was in the 135-150/87-97 mm of Hg range. They recommend a stress test be done and possibly a calcium test. Today my BP is 136/94 mm of Hg. I weigh about 140 lbs, and my height is 5 feet and 8 inches. My body mass index (BMI) is 21.29, pulse rate is 89 beats per minute, respiratory rate is 18 breaths per minute, and oxygen saturation is 98 percent.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The likely cause of your pain is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (acid from stomach moves up to esophagus). It is unlikely to be due to a cardiac cause. Your electrocardiogram (ECG) is normal (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity). Your symptoms are not typical of cardiac cause but suggest a gastric cause.

You may get a stress test done, just to rule it out objectively. You have borderline hypertension and a family history of it.

You should avoid a fatty, oily, and spicy diet. Go for a walk after having food instead of taking a rest. Have multiple small meals instead of heavy meals. Follow regular sleep habits and avoid stress. Have lots of green leafy vegetables, and fruits. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption if any. Elevate the head end of the bed while sleeping.

You should also drink two teaspoons of the syrup Sucral O (Sucralfate plus Oxetacaine) or Gelusil (Aluminium hydroxide, Magnesium hydroxide, and Dimethicone) three times a day for a week.

Hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.

Thank you and take care.