With heart disease being the leading cause of death among men and women in the U.S. (out-pacing both cancer and lung disease), there is justifiable cause for concern when experiencing chest pain. However, not heart conditions are not the only cause of chest pain.
Coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and heart valve diseases are among the more common types of heart conditions. The condition known as angina is also in this group. Marked by tightness or pressure and pain in the chest, it may feel like a heart attack, but is more of a warning sign that a heart problem exists. Medical care and monitoring are still needed, but medications such as Ranexa can usually help control this condition.
Possible Causes of Chest Pain That Are Not Heart-Related
Some of the other causes of chest pain include problems with the gastrointestinal system, the lungs, and the musculoskeletal system, among others. Many of their symptoms imitate angina. Understanding what may be the cause of your chest pain can make a big difference in how to respond should it occur. However, chest pain is not something to ignore or take lightly. If it comes on suddenly, is severe, or you are not sure what is causing it, always seek medical help right away.
Lung issues – Different diseases such as pneumonia, pleurisy, asthma, or an injury to a lung can all cause chest pain. The most common symptoms are sharp pains in the chest when breathing as well as wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Other conditions such as a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung) have symptoms that closely resemble angina.
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| Angina diagram. Source: medlineplus.gov |
Gastrointestinal problems – Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), a hypersensitive or spasming esophagus, peptic ulcers, hiatal hernias, gallbladder issues, or pancreatitis can all manifest themselves through chest pain. These may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, a sour taste in the mouth, or pain that lessens or worsens when lying down. Also, rather than pain emanating from the area of the heart, the pain may be higher or lower in the chest.
Musculoskeletal problems – If you have had a rib injury or pulled or strained a muscle in the thorax region (a blow, a sports injury, or severe or sudden coughing is often a cause), you may have chest pain as a result, especially when breathing in or turning your upper body. However, while the pain is in the chest, it may feel like it is localized or on one side.
Viruses that attack the nerves, such as shingles can be a source of chest pain.
Non-Physical Causes of Chest Pain
Not all chest pain has a physical cause. Panic attacks, anxiety, and other psychological conditions can cause chest pain as well as other symptoms that are similar to a heart attack (shortness of breath, chest tightness or pressure). No matter the cause, though, a proper medical exam and diagnosis are advised.
If you have certain medical conditions, knowing their symptoms can help you determine if you need to seek medical help for chest pain. However, if traditional treatment measures do not help, if the pain comes on suddenly for no reason or is severe, or if you are simply worried, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
