Chest pain can arise from any number of conditions, from benign heartburn to severe angina or a major heart attack. It’s important to know the most common causes of chest pain so you can correctly diagnose what’s causing your discomfort. Here are 10 possible causes of chest pain, listed in order of how often they occur.
Chest pain is a symptom that can have a variety of causes. One of the most common causes of chest pain is heartburn, which is caused by stomach acid that has moved up into the esophagus. Heartburn can cause a burning sensation in the chest, as well as pain and discomfort. Other symptoms associated with heartburn include an acidic taste in the mouth, a dry cough, and difficulty swallowing.
Although heartburn can be painful, it is usually harmless and not serious. Lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding fatty and spicy foods, and reducing stress can help reduce the frequency of heartburn. Additionally, over-the-counter antacids and acid blockers may provide relief. However, if you are experiencing persistent or severe chest pain, it's important to seek medical advice.
2) Gas
Gas can be a common cause of chest pain. It typically occurs when your stomach and/or intestines produce excess gas, which is then trapped in the digestive tract. This leads to painful sensations that range from mild to severe. Common causes of gas-related chest pain include overeating, eating too quickly, eating certain foods (such as broccoli or beans), drinking carbonated beverages, or eating foods that contain artificial sweeteners or lactose. Other symptoms of gas-related chest pain may include belching, bloating, nausea, and feeling gassy or having flatulence. To prevent chest pain related to gas, try eating smaller meals throughout the day and limiting your intake of gas-producing foods.
3) A Pulled Muscle
One of the common causes of chest pain is a pulled muscle. This type of chest pain can range from mild to severe and can be caused by physical activity or injury. The pain is usually felt in the center or left side of the chest, depending on which muscle has been affected. It may also radiate to the shoulders, arms, or back. Pulled chest muscles are typically treated with rest, ice or heat, compression, and elevation. Over-the-counter pain medications may also be recommended for relief.
4) A Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia is one of the most common causes of chest pain. It occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest area, causing pain and discomfort. This type of hernia usually affects people over the age of 50, though it can affect younger people as well. Symptoms of a hiatal hernia may include chest pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation. Treatment for a hiatal hernia often involves lifestyle changes such as avoiding acidic foods, losing weight, and eating smaller meals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
5) A Panic Attack
One of the causes of chest pain is a panic attack. It’s a feeling of intense fear that can come on suddenly and make you feel like you are in danger. During a panic attack, you may experience tightness or a squeezing sensation in your chest, as well as shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, dizziness, shaking, and sweating. If you are having chest pain due to a panic attack, it is important to remain calm and try to take slow, deep breaths. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to help control panic attacks and reduce their frequency.
6) Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a common cause of chest pain that can often be mistaken for other illnesses. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. When these tubes become inflamed, the airways narrow, making it difficult to breathe and leading to chest pain. Symptoms of bronchitis include coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and wheezing. Treatment for bronchitis typically involves rest and over-the-counter medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators. If the condition worsens or persists, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or steroids.
7) Costochondritis
Costochondritis is one of the most common causes of chest pain. It occurs when the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone becomes inflamed, causing sharp pain or pressure in the chest area. While this condition can be debilitating, it’s usually harmless and will eventually go away on its own. Common treatments for costochondritis include physical therapy, rest, medications such as ibuprofen or Tylenol, and heat or ice applications. In some cases, injections of steroids may be necessary.
8) A Collapsed Lung
One possible cause of chest pain is a collapsed lung, also known as pneumothorax. It occurs when the air leaks into the space between the lungs and chest wall. This causes the lung to collapse and can be very painful. Symptoms of a collapsed lung include sharp pain in one side of the chest, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and a blue or grayish skin tone.
If you experience any of these symptoms and think that you may have a collapsed lung, seek medical attention right away. A collapsed lung can be life threatening if not treated promptly. The causes of a collapsed lung are often unknown, but they can be caused by trauma to the chest, surgery on the lungs, or underlying lung conditions. Smoking is also linked to an increased risk of developing a collapsed lung.
9) A Pulmonary Embolism
Chest pain can be an alarming symptom that can be caused by many different things. One possible cause of chest pain is a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, typically in the legs, and travels to the lungs. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include chest pain that may start suddenly and feel sharp or stabbing. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, sweating, dizziness, and a rapid heart rate.
If you are experiencing chest pain, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A pulmonary embolism requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage to the lungs. If left untreated, a pulmonary embolism can be fatal. Risk factors for developing a pulmonary embolism include smoking, prolonged periods of immobility, certain medications, and certain inherited conditions.
If you think you may have a pulmonary embolism, seek medical care right away. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious complications.
10) A Heart Attack
When it comes to the causes of chest pain, one of the most serious potential culprits is a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a clot that forms in one of the coronary arteries. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, the heart muscle begins to die.
Symptoms of a heart attack can include chest pain, tightness or pressure, sweating, nausea and vomiting, and shortness of breath. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A heart attack can cause permanent damage or even be fatal if not treated promptly.
If you have any risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol or a family history of heart problems, it is important to work with your doctor to reduce your risk and make sure your heart stays healthy. Making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and quitting smoking can all help reduce your risk of a heart attack.