Understanding Chest Pain

Chest pain is discomfort felt in the front part of the body between the neck and upper abdomen. While it's commonly associated with heart issues like heart attacks, it can be caused by various factors, both serious and non-serious.

Symptoms of Chest Pain

Chest pain symptoms can vary based on the underlying cause:

Heart-related Chest Pain	Other Causes of Chest Pain
Uncomfortable pressure Chest tightness Pain Squeezing sensation	Pain increases with coughing Pain increases with swallowing Sharp pain for a few seconds or lasting hours Varying pain intensity with body position or stress

Causes of Chest Pain

Chest pain can be caused by numerous factors, including heart problems, blockages in arteries, infections, lung diseases, mental health conditions, digestive system issues, and injuries or trauma.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis involves various tests like chest X-rays, MRIs, stress tests, angiograms, ECGs, and blood tests. Treatment aims to manage pain and address the underlying cause, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Key Takeaway

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of chest pain include avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular checkups.

References

Dr. Ruchika Singh
MBBS, MD
Radiologist