GERD and Heart Valve Disease: Understanding the Connection & Chest Pain

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a disorder of the digestive system that causes stomach acid or bile to flow into the esophagus. Heart valvular disease causes a patient's heart valves to function improperly. Both conditions may cause chest pain.

GERD Chest Pain

• GERD sufferers may experience chest pain or a burning sensation in the chest, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Heart Valve Chest Pain

• Patients with heart valve disease may notice chest pain when they physically exert themselves, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute.

GERD Symptoms

• Individuals with GERD may experience a dry cough, problems swallowing or a sore throat. People may regurgitate sour liquid or food and they may notice a lump in the throat.

GERD Risk Factors

• Pregnant women, obese people and patients with a hiatal hernia have a greater risk of developing GERD. Smokers, diabetics and people with asthma are at an increased risk of experiencing GERD.

Heart Valve Disease Symptoms

• Heart valve disease sufferers may notice abnormal heartbeats, unusual fatigue or shortness of breath.

Heart Valve Disease Risk Factors

• People with high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol or diabetes have a greater risk of getting heart valvular disease.