When Should I Consider Going to Urgent Care for Heartburn?

Heartburn, or acid reflux, is a common condition that almost everyone experiences at some point. It happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest and a sour taste in your mouth.

While occasional heartburn is usually not a cause for concern, persistent or severe discomfort can sometimes indicate a more serious issue. Knowing when to seek urgent care for heartburn symptoms can help you protect your health, and our team is here to help you find answers.

Memorial Springs ER is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we offer urgent care for chest pain in Spring, Texa. Here’s how to determine whether you should consider going to urgent care for heartburn symptoms.

What does heartburn feel like?

Heartburn gets its name because it typically causes a burning sensation in your chest that lasts anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. The discomfort may rise toward your throat and include other symptoms like:

• A sour or bitter taste in your mouth
• Discomfort that worsens after eating, bending over, or lying down
• A feeling of food coming back up into your throat

While heartburn can be uncomfortable, it’s usually relieved with over-the-counter antacids, lifestyle adjustments, and time. However, not all chest discomfort is simply heartburn — sometimes, it could be a sign of something more serious.

When to seek urgent care for heartburn

Heartburn itself isn’t usually a medical emergency, but there are situations where you should consider seeking urgent care or even emergency care. Get medical attention if you experience symptoms like:

Severe or persistent pain

If your heartburn symptoms become unusually intense or last longer than usual, it could indicate a more serious issue, like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or an esophageal ulcer.

Chest pain that mimics a heart attack

Heartburn and heart-related chest pain can feel similar, and it can be difficult to tell them apart. If you experience pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation in your chest, especially if it radiates to your arms, neck, jaw, or back, seek emergency care immediately. And if you’re in doubt, always err on the side of caution and get your symptoms checked out.

Shortness of breath, dizziness, or cold sweats

These symptoms aren’t typical of heartburn and could indicate a heart attack. If you experience them along with chest discomfort, seek emergency care right away.

Difficulty swallowing

Sometimes, heartburn is accompanied by trouble swallowing or a feeling of food getting stuck in your throat. These symptoms could signal an esophageal problem that needs medical attention.

Vomiting or blood in stool

If you notice black or bloody stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, it could indicate internal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention.

Never ignore severe or unusual symptoms

While mild heartburn is usually nothing to worry about, symptoms that are severe, persistent, or unusual shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re unsure whether your discomfort is caused by heartburn or something more serious, visiting urgent care can help provide clarity and peace of mind.

Our team at Memorial Springs ER is equipped to evaluate your chest pain and determine whether your symptoms are related to heartburn or a more serious condition that necessitates more advanced care. Call us at 346-683-2057, or check in online to start quickly getting the care you need.