Heartburn is a common condition that most people have experienced at some point in their lives. It’s characterized by a burning sensation in the chest that can move up to the throat.

Although heartburn is not usually a cause for concern, it can be a warning sign of a more serious condition. In this article, we’ll look at some warning symptoms of heartburn that you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Chest Pain

One of the most common symptoms of heartburn is chest pain. This pain is usually a burning sensation that starts in the chest and moves up to the throat. It can also be a sharp pain that feels like it’s coming from the heart.

If you experience chest pain along with heartburn, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, as it could be a sign of a heart attack.

2. Difficulty Swallowing

If you find it difficult to swallow, it could be a symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can cause inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow.

If you experience difficulty swallowing, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as esophageal cancer.

3. Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can irritate the throat, causing it to become sore and inflamed.

If you experience a sore throat along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as laryngeal cancer.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

If you experience nausea and vomiting along with heartburn, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can irritate the stomach, causing nausea and vomiting.

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as ulcers or stomach cancer.

5. Chronic Cough

A chronic cough is a common symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can irritate the throat, causing a chronic cough.

If you experience a chronic cough along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as asthma or lung cancer.

6. Hoarseness

Hoarseness is a common symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can irritate the throat, causing hoarseness.

If you experience hoarseness along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as laryngeal cancer.

7. Bloating

Bloating is a common symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can cause bloating and gas.

If you experience bloating along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as gastroparesis or inflammatory bowel disease.

8. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you experience unexplained weight loss along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as cancer.

The acid reflux that causes heartburn can cause a loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

9. Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of heartburn. The acid reflux that causes heartburn can cause a loss of sleep, which can lead to chronic fatigue.

If you experience chronic fatigue along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as sleep apnea or thyroid disease.

10. Chest Discomfort

If you experience chest discomfort along with heartburn, it’s important to see a doctor, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a heart attack.

Although chest discomfort can be a symptom of heartburn, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Final Thoughts

Heartburn is a common condition that most people experience at some point in their lives. However, if you experience any of the warning symptoms listed above, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Although heartburn is not usually a cause for concern, it can be a warning sign of a more serious condition.