Q CAN you tell me what the difference between angina and heartburn is? I get chest pain quite a lot. I’m convinced it’s just heartburn but my wife has told me to go to the doctor’s straight away.

Howard, 49

A YOUR wife is quite right, you should seek the opinion of your doctor as a matter of priority.

Self-diagnosis is rarely a good idea, and indeed even medically trained personnel are strongly discouraged from trying to treat themselves. Broadly speaking angina is chest pain brought on by exertion, and relieved by rest, and is a result of the heart’s blood supply being insufficient for its needs.

Heartburn or acid reflux is a result of excess acid in the stomach causing irritation to the lining of the stomach and gullet, with pain as a result.

However, I would encourage any man over the age of 40 to not ignore chest pain, or put it down to a benign cause, without seeing their doctor first.

Q I FEEL tired all the time. I used to think it was having a busy lifestyle, but it’s got so bad that my boss and my boyfriend have told me to see my GP. Is there anything they can do?

Sacha, 28

A TIREDNESS is a very common condition, with many people seeking the advice of their GP.

As you highlight, it can be due to several factors, and increasingly we burn the candle at both ends, often without registering the effect it has on our long term health.

However, if it has come to a point where you are struggling to function, it is definitely worth a review, with a set of bloods to check markers like your iron level and thyroid function.

If these screening tests show no abnormality, looking at the pressure and expectations you out on yourself is as important as any blood test.

If you have any questions for Dr Zak, you can email: askdoctorzak@gmail.com

W: doctorzak.co.uk

T: @AskDoctorZak

Dr Uddin’s advice is provided in good faith and in accordance with currently accepted evidence. However, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of a GP, or other qualified health provider, regarding a medical condition.