Chest Pain

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Basics

  • Chest pain is a discomfort or pain in the chest area, often behind the breastbone, and can range from mild to severe.

Common causes

  • Muscle strain or inflammation in the chest wall.

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

  • Respiratory conditions such as pneumonia.

  • Anxiety or stress.

  • Heart-related issues.

When it's okay to monitor symptoms

  • If chest pain is mild and related to muscle strain or indigestion.

  • When it occurs in a known context, like after doing pushups, bench press, or minor injury.

When to talk to a doctor

  • If the pain is associated with a cough.

  • If you have a rash where the pain is located.

  • If you have a history of heart disease or risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

When to seek emergency care

  • Sudden chest discomfort, especially if it lasting more than a few minutes.

  • Chest pain accompanied by nausea, sweating, or difficulty breathing.

  • Chest pain that gets worse with exercise or that goes to the jaw or arm.

Home remedies and over-the-counter medications

  • If due to muscle strain, rest, over the counter medications (ibuprofen/acetaminophen), and apply a warm compress.

  • Over-the-counter antacids for chest pain related to indigestion.

  • Deep breathing exercises for chest pain associated with stress.