Chest pain is often associated with heart problems, such as a heart attack. However, not all chest pain originates from the heart. Other conditions, such as GERD (acid reflux), can cause similar symptoms. This overlap makes it difficult for many people to distinguish between the two. Therefore, understanding the differences between GERD and heart attack symptoms is crucial to avoid misinterpretation and to receive appropriate treatment promptly.
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Key Differences Between GERD and Heart Attack Symptoms
Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid reflux) and a heart attack are two entirely different and unrelated conditions. The only similarity is that both can cause discomfort in the chest area.
A heart attack is typically felt as pain or pressure in the chest, while heartburn is more commonly experienced as a burning sensation, sometimes accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in the mouth.
It is important to note that a heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, whereas heartburn is not. Recognizing the differences in symptoms is essential to avoid incorrect treatment.
Symptoms of Heartburn (Acid Reflux)
- A burning sensation in the chest, especially after eating or at night
- Chest pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
- A bitter or sour taste in the mouth
- A sensation of food being stuck in the chest or throat
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
These symptoms require immediate attention. If you or someone nearby experiences the following signs, seek emergency medical help right away:
- Chest pain or discomfort (usually in the center or left side, lasting more than a few minutes)
- Feeling weak, lightheaded, or faint
- Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Excessive sweating
Do not ignore heart attack symptoms and do not delay seeking medical help, as prompt treatment is critical to saving lives.
Recommended Doctors for GERD and Heart Conditions at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
If your symptoms are more indicative of GERD or acid reflux issues, you can consult internal medicine specialists with a subspecialty in gastroenterohepatology. Meanwhile, for symptoms related to heart conditions, you can consult a cardiologist.
1. dr. Hendra Koncoro, Sp.PD-KGEH
dr. Hendra Koncoro, Sp.PD-KGEH is a gastroenterology and hepatology consultant practicing at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, Jakarta. He completed his internal medicine specialist training at Udayana University, Bali, and later pursued subspecialty training in gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Indonesia.
In his practice, dr. Hendra actively participates in various seminars and training programs focusing on digestive system disorders, including GERD and liver diseases. He also provides diagnostic services such as gastrointestinal endoscopy to help establish accurate diagnoses.
dr. Hendra Koncoro, Sp.PD-KGEH is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM WIB
- Saturday: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM WIB
2. dr. Epistel Pangujian Simatupang, Sp.PD-KGEH
dr. Epistel Pangujian Simatupang, Sp.PD-KGEH is an internal medicine specialist with a subspecialty in gastroenterohepatology who has more than 17 years of experience in managing various digestive disorders, including GERD.
He graduated from a medical school in the Philippines and currently practices at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. In his clinical services, dr. Epistel performs gastrointestinal surgical procedures and utilizes endoscopic technology to diagnose and manage digestive conditions.
dr. Epistel Pangujian Simatupang, Sp.PD-KGEH is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Monday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM WIB
- Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM WIB
- Friday: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM WIB
3. dr. Hendra Nurjadin, SpPD-KGEH
dr. Hendra Nurjadin, SpPD-KGEH is also one of the recommended specialists for managing GERD. He completed his specialist training at the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines.
In addition, dr. Hendra has undertaken the Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy program at Rajavithi Hospital. Currently, besides actively seeing patients at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, he regularly participates in both national and international seminars and training programs to continuously update his expertise.
dr. Hendra Nurjadin, SpPD-KGEH is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM WIB
- Thursday: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM WIB
4. dr. Abhirama Nofandra Putra, Sp.JP (K)
For symptoms related to heart conditions, you can consult dr. Abhirama Nofandra Putra, Sp.JP (K). He is a cardiologist who completed his medical degree at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia in 2011. He then pursued his cardiology specialist training at the National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, completing it in 2019.
To further enhance his expertise in interventional cardiology, dr. Abhirama also underwent advanced training at Renji Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, in 2025.
In his clinical practice, dr. Abhirama performs a wide range of cardiac examinations and procedures, from basic tests such as ECG and stress tests to advanced procedures including cardiac catheterization, coronary angiography, and stent placement. He is also experienced in electrophysiology procedures, cardioversion, temporary pacemaker insertion, and pericardiocentesis for specific heart conditions.
dr. Abhirama Nofandra Putra, Sp.JP (K) is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Monday: 09:00 AM – 03:30 PM WIB
- Tuesday: 09:00 AM – 03:30 PM WIB
- Wednesday: 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM WIB
- Thursday: 09:00 AM – 03:30 PM WIB
- Friday: 09:00 AM – 03:30 PM WIB
- Saturday: 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM WIB
To make your visit easier, you can use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment service, or the Care Dokter application available on Google Play and the App Store to schedule visits, check queue numbers, and access other important information.
The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes and general reference only and does not represent the full scope of medical services offered by each doctor. To ensure appropriate treatment based on your condition, it is recommended to consult directly with a healthcare professional.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or need further information, please contact our call center at 0811-1900-2000.
