Chest or chest pain can emerge in many varieties. It can range from a dull ache in the chest to a sharp stabbing. Sometimes there is a feeling of pressure and burning sensation in the chest pain. In some cases, the pain radiates from the chest to the neck and jaws, and then waves of pain are felt in the back and arms. In general, chest pain is divided into types – cardiac related (such as angina) and non-cardiac related (such as gas).
Many different problems can cause chest pain. The problems which are dangerous among these are related to the heart or lungs. It can be difficult to determine the exact cause of chest pain, so it is best to seek medical attention right away. Pain in the chest is treated according to its cause. Treatment options include medications and in severe cases involving the heart or lungs, surgery.
Symptoms of heart-related chest pain - Chest pain is usually attributed to a disease related to the heart, but many people who suffer from heart disease report feeling a vague discomfort in the chest, for which "pain" is not an accurate description. Commonly chest discomfort that is related to heart diseases (such as heart attack etc.) may be associated with one or more of the following symptoms -
Chest pain can have various causes, some of which may be related to heart issues, while others may be due to non-cardiac reasons. It's essential to recognize the characteristics of chest pain and associated symptoms to determine the potential underlying cause. If you experience chest pain, especially if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Here are some common symptoms and features of chest pain:
Location: Chest pain is typically felt in the center or left side of the chest. However, it can also radiate to the arms (often the left arm), jaw, back, neck, or upper abdomen.
Description: The pain may be described as a dull ache, pressure, tightness, burning sensation, or a feeling of heaviness.
Duration: Chest pain caused by heart-related issues (such as angina) may last for a few minutes, whereas pain from a heart attack can be persistent or recurrent.
Triggers: Heart-related chest pain, like angina, may be triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or exposure to cold weather.
Relieving factors: Rest or medication, like nitroglycerin, may alleviate chest pain related to heart issues.
Exacerbating factors: Physical activity or stress may worsen heart-related chest pain.
Shortness of breath: Chest pain associated with difficulty breathing or feeling breathless could indicate a heart problem.
Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting along with chest pain.
Sweating: Experiencing cold sweat or clamminess is a common symptom during a heart-related episode.
Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or lightheaded can occur with chest pain, especially during a heart attack.
It's crucial to note that not all chest pain is related to heart problems. Other potential causes of chest pain may include:
Gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux (heartburn) or gastritis
Muscle strain or injury
Anxiety or panic attacks
Lung-related conditions, such as pneumonia or pleurisy
Rib or chest wall problems
If you or someone else experiences chest pain, especially if it is severe or accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, call emergency services immediately. Chest pain can be a medical emergency, and prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
If you're experiencing chest discomfort that you can't quite describe, or if you suspect problems such as a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention.
Some common causes of chest pain Most chest pain is not related to the heart, nor is it a sign of a life-threatening problem. The information below should give you an idea of whether or not these conditions could be causing your chest pain, but to be sure, consult a doctor for a correct and early diagnosis of chest pain.
GERD - GERD is a common condition in which acidic substances from the stomach come back up into the esophagus (food pipe) towards the mouth. This causes heartburn, and a bad taste in the mouth. Chest muscle strain – A chest muscle strain causes severe pain, but the pain subsides with rest, and the muscle heals over time.Â
Costochondritis – Costochondritis means inflammation of the cartilage of the thin bones of the chest. Symptoms include chest pain and ribs that are tender to the touch. Symptoms worsen on lying down, taking a deep breath, coughing or sneezing. Anxiety or panic attack – The effects of an anxiety or panic attack can last up to 20 minutes, causing symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, breathlessness, and dizziness.Â
Lung problems – Problems like pneumonia and pleurisy, which often cause severe chest pain. The pain caused by these gets worse on breathing in and out. This condition is also associated with other symptoms like cough and breathlessness.Â
Chest pain and heart problems - Chest pain is not always due to heart problems, but sometimes it can be a symptom of: Angina - Blocked blood supply to the heart muscle.
Heart attack - Sudden stoppage of blood supply to any part of the heart. The difference between these two conditions is that chest pain caused by angina is often triggered by physical activity or mental stress, and resolves within minutes. Symptoms of a heart attack last for more than 15 minutes, including sweating and nausea and vomiting.
Chest pain or Heart Pain is most commonly associated with cardiovascular problems and often causes the patients suffering from the same to become panicked. Dr. Manoj Godara provides advanced heart pain treatment in Jaipur. Most patients are ignorant of the fact that cardiac issues are not the only cause of chest pain, as it can result from various other problems. However, this does not provide any excuse to ignore this pain as these other issues might equally harm the overall well being of the patients. Dr. Manoj Godara offers the best chest pain treatment in Jaipur. To book a heart checkup in Jaipur by Dr. Godara, just call +91 9799010818.Â
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