That third plate of spicy nachos was always going to be a gamble. Then again, you didn’t expect the fiery aftermath that started in your chest, crept up into your throat, and made it hard to tell whether you were experiencing heartburn… or something more serious. Now you’re pacing the kitchen in the wee hours of the morning, wondering, “Should I go to urgent care for severe heartburn or acid reflux?”
The short answer? Yeah, sometimes.
The Heat on Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Heartburn and acid reflux are closely related but not quite the same thing.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Heartburn is the burning chest discomfort that often results.
For most people, these symptoms are mild and short-lived. But when they become severe, frequent, or mimic more dangerous conditions (like a heart attack), you need to take decisive action.
Common Causes of Heartburn and Acid Reflux
An occasional bout of heartburn is relatively common, but chronic or severe cases often have an underlying cause. The most common culprits include:
- Large meals or eating too quickly.
- Spicy, acidic, or fatty foods.
- Caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.
- Lying down immediately after eating.
- Smoking.
- Pregnancy.
- Certain medications, including anti-inflammatories and blood pressure meds.
- Underlying conditions, such as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) or a hiatal hernia.
What to Watch Out For
Aside from that unmistakable burning in your chest, additional symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux may include:
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
- Chest discomfort or tightness.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Chronic cough or hoarseness.
- Bloating or frequent belching.
When these symptoms escalate or linger for days, they could indicate a more serious issue.
The Red Flags That Require Urgent Care
You should visit urgent care for heartburn or acid reflux if:
- The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with antacids.
- You’re uncertain if the discomfort is heartburn or a heart attack (it is always best to err on the side of caution).
- You have chest pain with shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain radiating to the jaw or arm.
- Symptoms persist for more than a few days.
- You can’t keep food or liquids down.
- You’re experiencing unexplained weight loss.
The Risks of Ignoring Reflux or Severe Heartburn
When left untreated, chronic acid reflux can lead to:
- Chronic pain.
- Disturbed sleep.
- Esophagitis (inflammation that results in ulcers or bleeding).
- Esophageal strictures (narrowing that makes swallowing difficult).
- Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition.
How FirstCall Medical Center Can Help
At FirstCall Medical Center, our urgent care team can quickly evaluate your symptoms and help you get the relief you need. Here’s how we can assist:
- Rule out cardiac issues to ensure the chest pain isn’t heart related.
- Evaluate the severity of your reflux and assess underlying conditions.
- Prescribe stronger medications (like H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors) if needed.
- Offer dietary and lifestyle guidance to prevent future flare-ups.
- Refer you to a specialist if chronic reflux requires further evaluation.
Not every case of heartburn or reflux requires medical attention, but when it’s unusually painful, persistent, or paired with other concerning symptoms, don’t wait and see. Get peace of mind—and heart—at FirstCall Medical Center.
