Chest pain is a symptom characterized by discomfort or pain in the chest area that can vary in intensity, duration, and nature. It can result from a wide range of conditions, some of which are serious and require immediate medical attention, while others may be less urgent. The causes of chest pain are diverse and can be categorized into cardiac and non-cardiac origins. Cardiac causes include conditions such as angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle) and myocardial infarction (heart attack), which result from a blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle. Other cardiac conditions that can cause chest pain are pericarditis (inflammation of the heart's outer lining) and aortic dissection (a tear in the aorta). Non-cardiac causes are equally varied and include gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the esophagus, and peptic ulcers. Respiratory issues like pneumonia, pleuritis (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), or a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs) can also cause chest pain. Musculoskeletal problems, including costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone) or a pulled muscle, can lead to chest discomfort. Anxiety and panic attacks are additional non-cardiac causes that may present with chest pain. Symptoms associated with chest pain vary depending on the underlying cause. Cardiac chest pain is often described as a pressure, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest and may radiate to the arm, neck, or jaw. It may be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness. Non-cardiac chest pain may be sharp, burning, or aching and might be related to eating, breathing, or movement.
Treatment for chest pain depends on its underlying cause. For cardiac conditions, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are crucial, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions. Non-cardiac causes may require treatment specific to the underlying condition, such as medications for GERD, antibiotics for infections, or therapy for anxiety. In cases of acute chest pain, especially if accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe discomfort, or pain radiating to other areas, seeking immediate medical attention is essential to rule out serious conditions and determine appropriate management.
