What causes burning sensation in the upper back and chest?
Patient: Hi. Last Monday I was at work when all of a sudden my upper back area had a burning sensation and then I felt like my sides and chest had pressure. Mostly noticed in my sides and back. Then I felt a little dizzy. Lasted a couple of minutes. I am 51 years old. I quit smoking 10 months ago. I am about 30 lbs overweight. Doctor: Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. We need to first rule out cardiac cause for your symptoms because you are smoker, obese and having age more than 50. So you are at risk for heart diseases. Get done ecg and 2d echo. If both are normal than no need to worry for cardiac diseases. You are mostly having GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Smoking, obesity and old age are known risk factor for GERD. It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause the symptoms of burning chest pain. So avoid stress and tension. Loose weight and quit smoking as soon as possible. Avoid stress and tension. Avoid hot and spicy food. Start proton pump inhibitors and prokinetic drugs. Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.