What should you know about burping, farting and chest pain?

Trapped gas, acid reflux, gastritis and peptic ulcer disease can cause upper abdominal or chest discomfort with belching. Panic disorder may produce chest symptoms alongside rapid breathing and a feeling of alarm. Angina, pneumonia and pulmonary embolism can also cause chest pain, while shingles may cause burning pain before a rash appears. The location, quality, onset, triggers and associated symptoms matter more than the presence of burping or farting alone. Digestive symptoms do not rule out a heart or lung problem.

Stop exertion and note whether the pain changes with movement, breathing, meals or position. Do not drive yourself if the pain is severe or you feel unwell. If symptoms are mild and settle, arrange a clinical review, especially when episodes recur. Avoid taking pain medicine or reflux treatment as a substitute for assessment when the cause is unclear.

Call emergency services for chest pressure or pain that is severe, persistent or spreading to the arm, back, neck or jaw, or for breathlessness, sweating, faintness, confusion, coughing blood or a racing heartbeat. Urgent assessment is also needed when chest pain follows an injury or occurs with fever and breathing pain. Do not wait for burping to relieve it.

What examinations can separate digestive, heart and lung causes? Do my triggers or medical history change the level of concern? What symptoms should prompt emergency action if this happens again?