Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsGERD and Heart PalpitationsCauses of Heart PalpitationsRisk Factors for GERDHow Heart Palpitations Are DiagnosedTreating GERDFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
GERD and Heart Palpitations
Causes of Heart Palpitations
Risk Factors for GERD
How Heart Palpitations Are Diagnosed
Treating GERD
Frequently Asked Questions
Gastroesophageal reflux, or GERD, is a condition that impacts the stomach and the esophagus.
The stomach is full of acidic fluid that helps break down food contents. Sometimes the acidic fluid in the stomach refluxes, or moves back up into the esophagus. This can cause burning and irritation in the esophagus, a pain very similar to when you get a hot liquid on your skin and it burns.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
In most cases, the pain from GERD is most noticeable after a meal. This is because after you eat, the stomach begins to churn and to release acids that work to break down the food you just ate. Certain treatments and medications can help reduce symptoms of GERD and provide relief.
This article discusses GERD and the sensation of heart palpitations in more detail.
GERD can often feel like chest tightness or a burning sensation in the chest. Sometimes the burning sensation stops and then restarts, which can be uncomfortable.
The sudden restarting of GERD can feel similar to a heart palpitation, but GERD is not commonly a cause of palpitations.
A heart palpitation occurs when there is a disturbance in the electrical rhythm of the heart. Palpitations can feel like a fluttering in the chest, similar to a feeling that the heart has skipped a beat and rushes to catch up.
Heart Palpitations Are Not Linked to EatingIn contrast to GERD symptoms, palpitations are not usually linked to eating and can happen at any time of day.
Heart Palpitations Are Not Linked to Eating
In contrast to GERD symptoms, palpitations are not usually linked to eating and can happen at any time of day.
Seek Help If You Suspect a Heart AttackA heart attack is a medical emergency. If you are ever in doubt about whether you are experiencing GERD vs. a heart attack, do not hesitate to seek medical advice right away, including calling 911.
Seek Help If You Suspect a Heart Attack
A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you are ever in doubt about whether you are experiencing GERD vs. a heart attack, do not hesitate to seek medical advice right away, including calling 911.
Often these are brief periods of palpitations, however, if you experience extended periods of time in which you feel palpitations, then you may need to have an evaluation of your heart.
What to Know About Cardiac Arrhythmias
GERD can be linked to risk factors such as:
Heart palpitations are diagnosed using a device called an electrocardiogram.
An electrocardiogram is used to measure the electrical system of the heart and can provide insight into palpitations. Sometimes a wearable device is used to record your heart rhythm for several days to better understand your heart’s conduction system.
Your primary care doctor or a doctor who specializes in heart disease (a cardiologist) can evaluate you if you have significant heart palpitations.
What to Expect During an Echocardiogram
There are many treatment options for GERD available over the counter at your local pharmacy.
Antacids are a common treatment to help reduce the acidity of the stomach.Several other types of medications and supplements are available over the counter at most pharmacies, as well.
Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment. If you are taking other medications or are being seen for other medical disorders, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medications.
A Word From Verywell
Some palpitations, like premature ventricular contractions (extra heartbeats starting in your heart’s lower chambers), are completely normal. However, if you ever feel a large number of palpitations or you become light-headed or dizzy during episodes, contact your doctor for an evaluation. Under a doctor’s care, dietary changes and the right medication may make your GERD symptoms go away.
Treating GERD and Back Pain Together
How do you get rid of GERD
GERD is a very common health problem that can impact anyone. It may not be completely avoided, but it can be managed and treated with antacid medications. In addition, dietary changes can help reduce the number of GERD episodes you may experience. If your GERD is very severe, then surgery may be needed.
How can I treat GERD at home?
Treating GERD at home mainly involves avoiding triggers, such as limiting foods and beverages that are linked to acid reflux. Try to avoid lying down after eating when you have GERD as this can cause more acid to return to the esophagus.
For some people, reducing the size of meals and breaking three larger meals into five smaller ones spaced throughout the day can help. If these don’t completely fix your GERD, then you can also try antacid medications.
Which foods shouldn’t you eat with GERD?
Some foods and drinks are known to trigger GERD. Limit acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus, carbonated sodas, and spicy foods. Also, limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and avoid smoking to reduce GERD.
Eating foods high in fiber—like leafy greens (spinach, kale, and lettuce), whole grains, and root vegetables (carrots, beets, and potatoes)—may help improve GERD symptoms.
Foods to Help GERD Symptoms: What to Eat and What to Avoid
4 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.MedlinePlus.Gastroesophageal reflux disease.American Heart Association.Heartburn or heart attack?Richter JE, Rubenstein JH.Presentation and epidemiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease.Gastroenterology. 2018;154(2):267-276. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2017.07.045MedlinePlus.Taking antacids.
4 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.MedlinePlus.Gastroesophageal reflux disease.American Heart Association.Heartburn or heart attack?Richter JE, Rubenstein JH.Presentation and epidemiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease.Gastroenterology. 2018;154(2):267-276. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2017.07.045MedlinePlus.Taking antacids.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
MedlinePlus.Gastroesophageal reflux disease.American Heart Association.Heartburn or heart attack?Richter JE, Rubenstein JH.Presentation and epidemiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease.Gastroenterology. 2018;154(2):267-276. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2017.07.045MedlinePlus.Taking antacids.
MedlinePlus.Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
American Heart Association.Heartburn or heart attack?
Richter JE, Rubenstein JH.Presentation and epidemiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease.Gastroenterology. 2018;154(2):267-276. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2017.07.045
MedlinePlus.Taking antacids.
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