Management of complicated gastroesophageal reflux disease: atypical chest pain.

Although most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) present with the classic symptoms of heartburn and acid regurgitation, many complain of atypical chest pain suggestive of cardiac disease. Once cardiac ischemia has been excluded, it is important to consider GERD because this may be established as the cause of pain in 10% to 50% of such patients. If GERD is suspected or documented, vigorous antireflux treatment, preferably with proton pump inhibitory therapy, is indicated.