There are several reasons a person may experience chest pain. Often, the first thought is a heart attack; however, there are also several non-life-threatening reasons someone may have chest pain. The pain you feel could be coming from the lungs, muscles in the chest, ribs, tendons, esophagus or nerves as well as the heart. Pain from the back, neck and abdomen can radiate into the chest also.

Chest pain associated with a heart attack may be felt as pressure on the chest or a sense of fullness. Some people describe a burning sensation. Severe pain radiating to the back, neck, jaw or arms could also indicate a heart problem. Pain from a heart attack may come and go and vary in intensity. It will last longer than a few minutes and may get worse with activity.

Other symptoms that may accompany heart attack pain are shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, weakness and cold sweats. If these symptoms are present, it is best to call 9-1-1 for medical help.

Other serious causes of chest pain include a pulmonary embolism or blood clot in the lung, collapse of the lung and pneumonia. These types of chest pains may require urgent care. A tear in the wall of the large blood vessel that takes blood from the heart, the aorta, can cause a sudden, sharp pain in the upper back and chest.

Generally, most episodes of chest pain are less serious. These incidences can include such things as a panic attack, pleurisy, or swelling of the lining around the lung, inflammation of the sternum, shingles or muscle strain. Gallstones, acid reflux and spasms of the esophagus also cause pain in the chest area.

Contact Your Doctor

There is a reason you experience chest pain, so it is always best that you check in with your doctor to rule out any serious causes or conditions. If you experience the symptoms of a heart attack, it is critical that you call 9-1-1.

Identifying the cause of your chest pain can lead to effective treatment. Relief may be as simple as watching the foods you eat, taking an antacid, managing your stress levels or taking a pain reliever. A thorough examination and testing will provide the information needed to get you the care you require.

Stop suffering from unexplained chest pain. Contact Dr. Michael and schedule an appointment today.