How Can Gas Lead to Chest Pain?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

Gas trapped in your stomach or intestines can cause chest pain by creating pressure and discomfort in your chest area.

Explanation

Gas in your digestive system can cause chest pain by making your stomach and intestines expand and press against nearby organs. During digestion, your body naturally produces gas as food breaks down, but some people may experience excess gas buildup. This can result in sharp or burning chest pain. When gas triggers burping or acid reflux, you may feel pain or a burning sensation that resembles heartburn. Gas pressure can also push against your diaphragm—the muscle that helps you breathe—creating chest tightness or discomfort. While this pain might feel like it's coming from your heart, it's actually your digestive system at work. While gas can cause chest pain, chest pain can also be a sign of serious medical conditions. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing chest pain, regardless of the cause.

(References)

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Richter JE. Chest pain and gastroesophageal reflux disease. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2000 Apr;30(3 Suppl):S39-41. PMID: 10777171.
Liu Y, He S, Chen Y, Xu J, Tang C, Tang Y, Luo G. Acid reflux in patients with coronary artery disease and refractory chest pain. Intern Med. 2013;52(11):1165-71. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.52.0031. PMID: 23728549.
Patti MG, Molena D, Fisichella PM, Perretta S, Way LW. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chest pain. Results of laparoscopic antireflux surgery. Surg Endosc. 2002 Apr;16(4):563-6. doi: 10.1007/s00464-001-8220-9. Epub 2002 Feb 8. PMID: 11972188.

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