What causes acid reflux and pain in the center of the chest?

Heartburn and pain in the center of the chest may be caused by dietary factors or pathological conditions such as chronic gastritis, cholecystitis, or gastric ulcers.

I. Dietary Factors

Overeating or consuming spicy, irritating foods can lead to excessive gastric acid secretion, resulting in discomfort. This type of discomfort usually resolves on its own.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Chronic Gastritis
Chronic gastritis may present with upper abdominal pain, bloating, loss of appetite, belching, heartburn, and other symptoms of indigestion. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as omeprazole tablets, mosapride tablets, and amoxicillin capsules for treatment.

2. Cholecystitis
During an acute episode of cholecystitis, bile reflux may occur due to gallbladder irritation. Bile is alkaline, and when it flows back into the stomach, it can cause alkaline damage to the gastric mucosa, leading to pain in the middle of the chest or upper abdomen. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as bitter taste in the mouth, abdominal distension, and nausea. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as anti-inflammatory and cholagogue tablets, cholelithiasis-relieving tablets, or ursodeoxycholic acid tablets for treatment.

3. Gastric Ulcer
The gastric mucosa, which normally protects the stomach lining, may become damaged or ulcerated when irritated by various factors, leading to gastric ulcers. This condition can cause symptoms such as pain, bloating, heartburn, and acid reflux.

Heartburn and central chest pain may also be caused by reflux esophagitis. Patients are advised to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, and to eat more light, easily digestible foods.