As many of you will have seen in the last few years, chest pain has been one of the most talked-about issues. Chest pain is far more common than you can imagine. While it can be nothing to worry about, it comes about as a symptom of a more serious condition in most cases. If you experience any form of chest pain, you should see a doctor specializing in chest pain in Port Saint Lucie for diagnosis and treatment.
Chest pain is a symptom that several conditions can cause. The type of chest pain you experience will determine the method used to diagnose and treat it. Severe chest pain can be a sign of an impending heart attack. While this is the most powerful type of chest pain, it’s not the only one that warrants emergency medical attention. Here are other causes of chest pain you should know about.
- Angina
Angina is the pain you feel when your heart muscle does not get enough blood. The pain can also be brought about by emotional stress, cold temperatures, or strenuous exercise. You experience shortness of breath because there isn’t enough oxygen getting to essential organs like your brain and heart. This type of chest pain is usually relieved by rest. However, if this pain does not go away or comes on when you are taking a walk, you should see a doctor to determine the causes of your angina.
- Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when part of your heart stops receiving vital blood supplies due to the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries. Heart attacks are also accompanied by shortness of breath, vomiting, and chest pain that worsen when you breathe in. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be a heart attack. Emergency medical attention is necessary if you believe it’s a heart attack because this condition can lead to death or severe damage to your organs.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GERD)
Heartburn is one of the symptoms that comes with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is caused by stomach acid flowing back into your esophagus. When you experience heartburn, it leads to chest pain because the acid irritates your esophagus lining or causes inflammation. GERD can also cause esophageal spasms, which can cause severe pain in your chest.
- Stress or anxiety
Feelings of stress or anxiety can result in physical symptoms that mimic other conditions. Chest pains caused by stress usually subside when you feel less anxious about the situation you’re stressing. However, if this pain persists for more than 20 minutes, you need to see a doctor so they can determine the underlying cause of your chest pain. Stress and anxiety also commonly lead to shortness of breath.
- Pericarditis
Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, a thin membrane surrounding your heart. This condition can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, coughing, or even vomiting.
To summarize, chest pain is a common symptom and one you should not ignore, especially if you think it is linked to a heart attack. Common causes of chest pain include pericarditis, stress or anxiety, gastroesophageal reflux disease, heart attack, and angina. If you think you are having a heart attack, contact emergency services immediately.
