Chest pain is not to be overlooked. However, you should be aware that there are numerous alternative causes. It is frequently associated with the heart. However, either right chest pain or left chest pain might be caused by problems with the lungs, esophagus, muscles, ribs, or nerves. Several of these disorders are life-threatening. Others, though, are not. If you are experiencing inexplicable pain on left side of chest , even on the right, the only way to determine its origin comprehensively is to see a doctor.
Chest Pain Symptoms
Chest pain when breathing can occur anywhere from the neck to the upper abdomen. Chest pain can be one of the following:
- Burning
- Aching
- Stabbing
- A feeling of constriction, squeezing, or crushing
Medically Common Causes Of Cardiac Problems
Coronary artery disease, or CAD
It is a condition that affects the coronary arteries. This is a narrowing of the blood vessels in the heart that reduces blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. This can result in angina. It is an indication of heart disease but does not often result in lasting cardiac damage. It is, however, a warning indication that you are at increased risk of having a heart attack in the future. The pain in your chest may radiate to your arm, shoulder, jaw, or back. It may have the sense of pressure or squeezing. Exercise, excitement, or mental discomfort can all provoke angina, which is eased by rest.
Infraction of the myocardium (heart attack) result in a decrease in blood flow through the coronary arteries which results in the loss of heart muscle cells. Though comparable to angina, a heart attack is typically characterized by a more intense, crushing pain in the center or left side of the chest that does not subside with rest. Sufferers may experience sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, or acute weakness in addition to the pain.
Along with chest pain, an inflammation of the heart muscle called myocarditis may result in a fever, tiredness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Despite the absence of a blockage, myocarditis symptoms might mimic those of a heart attack.
Lung Issues
These are some of the more common causes of chest pain:
- Pleuritis. Also referred to as pleurisy, this is an inflammation or irritation of the lungs and chest lining. When you breathe, cough, or sneeze, you are likely to experience an acute discomfort. Pleuritic chest pain is most frequently caused by bacterial or viral infections, pulmonary embolism, or pneumothorax. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and cancer are less common reasons.
- Pneumonia or abscess of the lungs. Pleuritic and other types of chest pain, such as a deep chest discomfort, can be caused by certain lung infections. Pneumonia frequently manifests itself abruptly, with fever, chills, coughing, and pus coughed up from the respiratory system.
- Hypertension of the lungs. This abnormally high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries causes the right side of the heart to work excessively hard, simulating angina.
- Asthma
Asthma is an inflammatory illness of the airways that causes shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and occasionally chest pain.
COPD. This condition is caused by one or more of the following three diseases: emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The condition impairs airflow by contracting and destroying both the airways that transport gases and air to and from the lungs and the microscopic air sacs (alveoli) that deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide. The most common cause is smoking.
Problems With The Bones, Muscles, Or Nerves
Occasionally, chest pain is caused by overuse or an injury to the chest area as a result of a fall or accident. Viruses can also cause chest pain. Additional causes of chest discomfort include the following:
- Rib issues. The pain associated with a cracked rib may intensify with deep breathing or coughing. It is frequently localized to a single place and may feel sensitive when pressed. Additionally, the area where the ribs connect to the breastbone may become inflamed.
- Strain on the muscles. Even vigorous coughing can cause injury or inflammation of the muscles and tendons between the ribs, resulting in chest pain. The pain usually persists and becomes worse with activity.
- Shingles. The varicella zoster virus causes shingles, which may begin with a sharp, band-like pain and progress to a characteristic rash a few days later.
Additional Causes Of Chest Pain
Anxiety and panic attacks are another possible cause of chest pain. Dizziness, a sense of shortness of breath, palpitations, tingling feelings, and shaking are all possible related symptoms.
When To Consult A Physician About Chest Pain
When in doubt, see your doctor if you experience chest pain, particularly if it occurs suddenly or does not resolve with anti-inflammatory drugs or other self-care measures such as modifying your diet.
Call 911 if you experience any of the following symptoms in addition to chest pain:
- Under your breastbone, a sudden sensation of pressure, squeezing, tightness, or crushing
- Pain in the chest that radiates to the jaw, left arm, or back
- Sudden, severe chest pain associated with shortness of breath, particularly following a prolonged period of inactivity
- Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, rapid heart rate or breathing, disorientation, ashen complexion, or profuse perspiration.
- Extremely low blood pressure or heart rate
Consult your physician if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever, chills, or coughing up yellow-green mucus
- Difficulties swallowing
- Significant chest pain that does not subside
What Is The Treatment For Chest Pain?
- Your doctor may use medication, noninvasive techniques, surgery, or a combination of these methods to manage chest discomfort. The treatment for chest pain is determined by the source and degree of the pain.
- While you wait for assistance, refrain from doing anything that may be contributing to your symptoms and maintain your composure. Also:
Prop your head up in a comfortable position.
Take one chewable aspirin if you have regular adult aspirin (as long as you are not allergic to aspirin). Chewing more than one is ineffective and may result in unpleasant side effects.
Additionally, keep in mind that indicators of a heart attack vary by everyone. During a heart attack, anyone might develop chest pain. It is the most frequently occurring sign of a heart attack. However, women, the elderly, and diabetics may exhibit additional symptoms. Alternatively, they may be lacking in any.
What Is The Prognosis For Individuals Experiencing Chest Pain?
- Your physician can diagnose and treat chest pain caused by a variety of common diseases. These may include heartburn, anxiety episodes, and asthma or other associated conditions.
- Chest pain, on the other hand, can be an indication of a life-threatening disease. Seek quick medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or another type of heart disease. This has the potential to save your life.
- Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor may offer additional therapies to assist you in managing your illness.
EN 
MS