In angina, the chest pain is due to a lack of sufficient blood flow to the heart. Angina is a one-time pain or can happen even after treatment. According to the doctors, angina pain goes away quickly. However certain medicines and lifestyle changes can help in reducing the risk. 

Noncardiac chest pain can be because of a problem in the esophagus or GERD. Stress, anxiety, and depression can also cause chronic chest pain. 

Other than chest pain, angina also shows some other symptoms

• A burning sensation
• Feeling of fullness
• Some kind of pressure on the heart
• Chest pain is kind of stabbing
• Pain mediated to other body parts like arms, neck, shoulder, or jaws
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Breathing issues
• Plentiful sweating

Symptoms of noncardiac chest pain

• Painful squeezing or tightness in the chest
• Heartburn
• Burning sensation in the chest
• Pain radiates to other body parts
• Most of the time, symptoms are seen after having food

Angina pain lasts for about 3-5 minutes. However, episodes of unstable angina can last up to 15 minutes. They go away quickly but can occur intermittently over several hours.

Noncardiac chest pain can last for a few minutes to a few hours. 

Common causes of noncardiac chest pain

• GERD
• Esophageal muscle spasms
• Esophageal hypersensitivity
• Inflammation of the esophagus
• Abnormal esophageal tissue

Other conditions that can cause noncardiac chest pain

• Problems in chest or chest wall.
• Chronic lung disease
• Stomach ulcers
• Psychological problems like stress, anxiety, or depression

As you have seen, the symptoms of angina and noncardiac chest pain almost overlap, thus it is best not to take chest pain lightly. One should always take chest pain seriously. Do consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. This pain can affect your quality of life. 

Having angina puts you at a greater risk for heart attack than people who don’t have angina. When the heart is deprived of blood for long enough to stop functioning, it can take life.

(Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.)