What Causes Burning Sensation In The Chest And Back Area?

Posted on Thu, 25 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 Answered on

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, im currently having a burning sensation in my chest and back. (Between shoulder blades). I have back pain that travels down both arms. Ive had 3 previous stress tests all were clear of heart disease(as i had chest pain with exertion) the last test was 3 months ago. The burning is severe when having sex or running or even walking fast :( the burning eases with rest. Ive tried raising my bed and im on esomeprazole and ranitidine. I have a bad taste in my mouth also. I looked up these symtoms online and angina is the most serious reason. Doctor, could this be heart related? After 12ecgs and 3 negative stress tests. My doctor has diagnosed me with anxiety

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
No, this is unlikely to be related to a heart disease given the test result

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this pain that you have reported. I have reviewed your information fully and with so many normal test results investigating the heart, this is very unlikely to be caused by a heart disease. I understand the nature of the symptoms starting with exercise and being relieved by rest make you think even more about angina. However, negative tests do not support this.

Bad taste in mouth raise the suspicion of a possible reflux disease. Omeprazole and ranitidine can help. However, if it is a severe case, these measures may not be sufficient. I will suggest that you see a gastroenterologist for an upper endoscopy to be done.

Anxiety seems a reasonable possibility. Did your doctor get you on any medications for this? If not, I suggest he does so as it will also serve to help narrow down the different list of possible causes of your symptoms.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (5 minutes later)

Thanks doctor, im really pleased that we can rule out angina. I take escitaloparm and mirtazipine for my anxiety. I will continue my reflux medicines and hope that it settles down. I also have trouble swallowing. Ill ask my GP regarding an endoscope. Thanks again

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Keep me updated when you speak to your GP. I am happy you are already taking a drug for your anxiety.

Best wishes.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (1 minute later)

Thanks doctor. I will let you know how i get on

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Waiting!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Until then, I wish you well.

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar