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Why does my chest burn when breathing?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have burning in my chest and throat whenever I breathe, mainly in the chest. It worsens when I eat, drink, hiccup, or burp. It also worsens when I lie down or do physical activity. I have difficulty breathing. It feels like heartburn but worse, and heartburn medication is not helping. It has lasted for four days so far.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Aissa Youcef Mouffoki

Education:

Doctorate of Medicine

Professional Bio:

As a general practitioner deeply committed to holistic and accessible healthcare, I believe in treating patients as whole individuals—physically, mentally, and socially. My medical philosophy centers on prevention, patient education, and active listening, aiming to build trust and long-term well-being. I advocate for a more human, innovative approach to medicine, and regularly share insights with my community to empower and educate. I am fluent in Arabic, French, and English, which allows me to connect with and support a diverse patient population across cultures and regions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

The burning sensation in your chest and throat that worsens with eating, drinking, physical activity, or lying down, along with difficulty breathing, is concerning, especially since heartburn medications have not helped and the pain has been increasing over several days.

While it might still be related to the esophagus or stomach, your symptoms could also indicate something more serious involving the heart or lungs. The sharp chest pain with physical activity and difficulty breathing warrants prompt evaluation.

I strongly recommend that you seek urgent medical attention today. A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical exam, check your vital signs, and may order tests such as an ECG (electrocardiogram), chest X-ray, or blood work to rule out heart or lung issues. Do not wait for symptoms to resolve on their own, as chest pain with shortness of breath can sometimes be serious.

In the meantime, avoid strenuous activity, avoid lying flat immediately after eating, and keep a record of your symptoms, including when they occur and what makes them worse.

Please go to the nearest emergency department or call your doctor right away. This is not something to try to manage at home.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 7, 2026
Reviewed At May 11, 2026

Education:

Doctorate of Medicine

Professional Bio:

As a general practitioner deeply committed to holistic and accessible healthcare, I believe in treating patients as whole individuals—physically, mentally, and socially. My medical philosophy centers on prevention, patient education, and active listening, aiming to build trust and long-term well-being. I advocate for a more human, innovative approach to medicine, and regularly share insights with my community to empower and educate. I am fluent in Arabic, French, and English, which allows me to connect with and support a diverse patient population across cultures and regions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

Doctorate of Medicine

Professional Bio:

As a general practitioner deeply committed to holistic and accessible healthcare, I believe in treating patients as whole individuals—physically, mentally, and socially. My medical philosophy centers on prevention, patient education, and active listening, aiming to build trust and long-term well-being. I advocate for a more human, innovative approach to medicine, and regularly share insights with my community to empower and educate. I am fluent in Arabic, French, and English, which allows me to connect with and support a diverse patient population across cultures and regions.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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