Chest pain or chest discomfort is an exceedingly common complaint that prompts patients to seek medical attention, whether it be at a physician’s office or the Emergency Department. It can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from less severe non-cardiac conditions like GERD and heartburn to more critical problems involving the lungs and last but not least cardiac disorders. In this blog post, we will explore both cardiac vs non-cardiac causes of chest pain, trying to figure out what it feels like! By looking into these topics, we aim to shed light on the diverse array of factors contributing to chest pain and enhance our understanding of its origins. We will also try to find out whether chest pain is always bad or not!

Is Chest Pain Always Bad:

The question of whether chest pain is always a cause for alarm often arises. It’s important to note that chest discomfort can arise from benign causes that may only require moderate analgesics for relief. However, it’s equally crucial to acknowledge that chest pain can also be indicative of life-threatening conditions that demand immediate diagnosis and treatment. By recognizing the spectrum of potential causes, ranging from mild to severe, we can better appreciate the significance of each case and respond accordingly to ensure the well-being and safety of individuals experiencing chest pain. One important fact to be mentioned here is that sometimes the symptoms of a serious (heart) cause of chest pain may not be striking and can resemble some mild causes like GI problems. It can be misleading so One must consult a doctor, in any case, to be on the safer side.

What Type of Pain in the Chest is Dangerous:

“Pain anywhere in the chest area is known as chest pain”. It can be sharp like a knife, or dull aching depending on the underlying cause.

Why my chest feels heavy:

• The patient can describe it as tightness, heaviness, or pressure on the left side (commonly in angina, acute coronary syndrome, and heart attack) or sometimes in the middle ( in a type of heart attack).
• It can radiate to the left arm, jaws, adjacent areas, or back(usually cardiac).
• Some times patient may feel pain between two scapulae (interscapular) which can be cardiac in origin.

What Causes Chest Pain:

The causes of chest pain are broadly divided into two categories due to structures underneath the chest wall.

• Cardiac cause
• Noncardiac causes

Cardiac Causes:

Chest pain of cardiac origin primarily stems from the heart itself, including its outer covering known as the pericardium, or the blood vessels responsible for supplying blood to the heart. Additionally, chest pain may arise from damage to the great vessel, specifically the aorta, which carries blood from the heart to various parts of the body. These cardiac causes play a significant role in the evaluation and understanding of chest pain, necessitating thorough consideration to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. This type of chest pain usually occurs on the left side or sometimes in the lower center where your chest meets your tummy.

Non-Cardiac Causes:

Chest pain can arise from various structures within the chest wall, in addition to the heart. These encompass a range of components, including the esophagus, which extends through the diaphragm to the stomach in the abdomen, as well as the lungs with their protective coverings known as the pleurae, along with the blood vessels that supply them. Additionally, the chest is home to lymph nodes and the structures that compose the chest wall, such as muscles, ribs, cartilage, and joints. At times, pain originating in the upper abdomen, as seen in conditions like gastritis, pancreatitis, and gall bladder disease, can radiate to the chest. Although the source of such pain resides in the abdomen, it can be perceived in an adjacent area of the chest. It is crucial to consider these diverse possibilities when evaluating chest pain, as a comprehensive understanding of its potential sources is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it is crucial to recognize that while the most common cause of chest pain is GERD, with its characteristic burning sensation behind the breastbone and association with eating, we must not dismiss other potential causes. Cardiac pain, presenting as chest tightness and pressure on the upper left side, radiating to the arm or neck, should always be considered. Additionally, localized pain that worsens upon touch may be indicative of superficial chest wall issues. Therefore, it is vital to consult healthcare providers without delay to ensure addressing any undiagnosed alarming cause as symptoms are not always typical, and proper diagnostic workup is mandatory. By taking chest pain seriously and seeking medical attention, we can confidently navigate our health and well-being.