Hi John, This is a difficult question! If you think there is any possibility that what you are experiencing is a heart attack or other heart related issue, don't wait. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is better to be safe than sorry. As helpful as online advice is, it can not take the place of your doctor's advice, so when in doubt, see a doc. There is a lot of information here that will help you ask all the right questions and try to determine how best to manage your care if you are diagnosed with GERD or acid reflux. There is a good overview here about acid reflux and what the causes and risks are. You can check some symptoms here in the symptoms database. If you have been diagnosed with acid reflux, you can read about medicines regularly prescribed here and treatments available here.   I hope you find something here that helps. Stay in touch and let us know how you are doing!!   Vicki M