Chest Pain

Overview

Chest pain is a common symptom that can vary widely in intensity and presentation. It can range from a sharp, stabbing sensation to a dull ache. Sometimes, it feels like crushing pressure or burning discomfort. Understanding the underlying causes of chest pain is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

Types of Chest Pain

1. Cardiac Chest Pain (Angina): This type of chest pain is related to the heart. It occurs due to an imbalance between the blood supply to the heart and the oxygen needs of the heart muscle. Common causes include atherosclerosis (narrowing of coronary arteries) and coronary spasms. Cardiac chest pain is often described as pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or burning. It may radiate to the upper abdomen, back, neck, jaw, left arm, or shoulders. Exertion, cold exposure, and emotional stress can trigger it.

2. Non-Cardiac Chest Pain: This category includes chest pain not directly related to heart conditions. Causes vary and may involve infections, muscle or bone issues, lung tumors, lung collapse, chest trauma, upper abdominal pain, and gastric reflux. Non-cardiac chest pain may change with respiration, cough, or position.

Causes of Chest Pain

• Cardiac Causes:
  • Atherosclerosis (narrowing of coronary arteries)
  • Coronary artery spasms
  • Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
  • Angina pectoris
• Non-Cardiac Causes:
  • Lung infections
  • Muscle strain
  • Rib injuries
  • Lung collapse (pneumothorax)
  • Upper abdominal issues
  • Gastric reflux (GERD)

Risk Factors of Chest Pain

• Cardiac Risk Factors:
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Family history of heart disease
• Non-Cardiac Risk Factors:
  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms of Chest Pain

Preventions of Chest Pain

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  • Regular exercise
  • Healthy diet
  • Smoking cessation
  • Stress management
  • Weight control

Diagnosis of Chest Pain

• Medical History and Physical Examination
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Blood Tests (Troponin, CK-MB)
• Chest X-rays
• Stress Tests (Exercise or Pharmacological)
• Coronary Angiography

Treatment for Chest Pain

• Cardiac Treatment:
  • Medications (nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers)
  • Revascularization procedures (angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery)
• Non-Cardiac Treatment:
  • Address underlying causes (e.g., treat infections, manage reflux)
  • Pain management (analgesics, muscle relaxants)

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek immediate medical attention for severe chest pain or pain accompanied by:

• • Nausea and vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness
  • Pain or discomfort in arms
  • Pregnant women should also seek evaluation for chest pain related to heartburn, indigestion, or other concerns.