Reflux esophagitis and angina are differentiated by symptomatic manifestations, ancillary tests, and treatment modalities.
1. Symptom identification. The two may be confused in terms of symptoms. Both are characterized by retrosternal discomfort, but reflux esophagitis is characterized by a recurrent burning sensation in the retrosternal area, which may worsen after meals. Angina pectoris is characterized by squeezing pain in the precordial area or the back of the sternum, accompanied by palpitations, sweating, and tightness in the throat.
2. Auxiliary examination. Reflux esophagitis can be detected by gastroscopy with erosion and congestion of the esophageal wall, but no abnormality is detected by electrocardiography. On the other hand, angina pectoris can be detected by electrocardiography with ST-T abnormality, and coronary artery stenosis can be detected by coronary angiography.
3. Differentiation of treatment modes. Reflux esophagitis can be effectively relieved by taking acid-suppressing drugs, such as omeprazole, while angina can be effectively relieved by taking nitrate drugs, such as nitroglycerin tablets.
When post-sternal discomfort occurs, consult a doctor in a timely manner, under the guidance of the doctor’s active diagnosis and treatment.