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.