Chest Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Chest Pain?

Heart problems are just one of the many causes of upper body chest pain. Among other things, it might feel tight, achy, or sharp. Your back and arms may also get affected. Always take chest pain seriously and seek medical help right once. The reasons for chest pain can range from pneumonia or heartburn to a heart attack.

 Causes of Chest Pain

Heart disease is frequently linked to chest pain. Nonetheless, many heart disease sufferers claim to experience a slight discomfort that they wouldn't necessarily classify as pain. Chest pain could be caused by the following:

• Heart and vascular problems, such as angina, heart attack, aortic dissection, and inflammation in the sac around the heart
• Digestive problems, such as heartburn, swallowing disorders, gallbladder or pancreas problems
• Lung problems, such as pulmonary embolism, inflammation of the membrane covering the lungs, collapsed lungs, and pulmonary hypertension
• Musculoskeletal problems, such as costochondritis, injured ribs, and sore muscles

Chest pain can also be caused by panic attacks and shingles.

 Symptoms of Heart Related Chest Pain

Together with the chest pain, you might experience other symptoms. Your physician can make a diagnosis with the help of any symptoms you may be experiencing. Symptoms of chest pain may include the following:

• Chest stiffness or pressure
• Arm, back, or jaw pain
• Fatigue
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Breathing difficulty
• Abdomen ache
• Discomfort when exerting oneself

Chest pain symptoms that may not be heart-related include:

• An acidic or sour taste in your mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain that gets better or worse depending on your body position
• Pain that gets worse when you cough
• Pain that is accompanied by a rash, fever, aches, and chills
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Hyperventilating
• Chest pain that extends
• Sensations of worry or anxiety

 When to see a doctor for Chest Pain?

If chest pain suddenly develops, it is advised to see a doctor, especially if anti-inflammatory medication does not provide relief.

One should get immediate medical assistance if they have:

• Discomfort that begins with nausea, vomiting, sweating, breathing trouble, or changes in breathing rate
• Tightness or heaviness in the chest pain that spreads to the arms, back, neck, or jaw
• Blue nails or lips
• Excruciating pain lasting more than 15 minutes

Chest pain may occasionally pose a life-threatening concern. This is why it shouldn't be disregarded.