Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people visit the emergency room. The symptoms are only sometimes easy to identify, and because it comes in many forms, diagnosis can be tricky. Chest pain is a feeling of discomfort or an ache in your chest that might seem like it could be heart-related. Chest pain that is severe or lasting long-term may result in heart disease or several other serious illnesses. Without proper care, chest pain can be fatal or cause permanent damage to your quality of life.
It is important to recognize chest pain's signs and causes and seek medical attention if you experience it. A person's history is very important in determining the cause. For example, smoking or previous history of heart disease are potential causes for someone having chest pains due to their condition.
Potential Causes of Chest Pain
Various medical conditions, including benign and serious ones, can cause chest pain. Common causes of chest pain include:
- Muscle Strain - Muscle strain is a common cause of chest pain, especially in athletes or people who engage in strenuous physical activity. It is caused by overusing, straining, or tearing the muscles in the chest area. Symptoms of muscle strain include pain, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- Costochondritis - Costochondritis is a cartilage inflammation that connects the ribs to the breastbone. An infection or injury usually causes it to the chest area. Costochondritis symptoms include chest pain, tenderness when the area is touched, and difficulty breathing.
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks - Anxiety and panic attacks can also cause chest pain. This chest pain is usually caused by increased heart rate and breathing rate due to anxiety or fear. Symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks include chest tightness, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and sweating.
- Heart Attack - A heart attack is a medical emergency when the blood supply to the heart is blocked. Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and pain in the arms or jaw.
- Pulmonary Embolism - A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary artery that carries blood from the heart to the lungs. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and rapid heartbeat.
- Aortic Dissection - An aortic dissection is a tear in the inner wall of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Symptoms of an aortic dissection include chest pain, back pain, and difficulty breathing.
Treating Chest Pain
Chest pain can be a frightening and potentially dangerous symptom. It can range from mild to severe and can indicate a wide variety of medical conditions. While a medical professional should always evaluate chest pain, several treatments can help relieve chest pain. The following are some of the most common treatments for chest pain:
- Medications: Certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants, can help reduce chest pain. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure, reduce your cholesterol levels, or treat an underlying condition that could be causing chest pain.
- Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help relax the chest muscles and reduce chest pain.
- Rest: Resting can help reduce chest pain and allow the body to heal itself.
- Avoiding Certain Activities: If certain activities or movements aggravate your chest pain, such as lifting heavy objects or playing certain sports, it is important to avoid those activities until the pain subsides.
- Stress Management: Stress can cause chest pain, so it is important to practice stress-management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, yoga, or meditation.
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce the intensity of chest pain and improve overall cardiovascular health.
- Hot and Cold Compress: Applying a hot or cold compress to the chest can help reduce chest pain.
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help reduce chest pain by stimulating certain pressure points in the body and releasing endorphins, which can help reduce pain.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any underlying damage causing the chest pain.
- Lifestyle Changes: Changing your lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol intake, can help reduce chest pain.
Chest pain is a common symptom of several medical conditions. It is important to remember that chest pain is a symptom of an underlying issue and should always be evaluated by a medical professional. Never attempt to diagnose or treat chest pain on your own. If your chest pain persists or worsens, seek medical attention immediately.