What is Chest Pain?
The sensation of chest pain has many forms depending on the root cause of the problem. It can be sharp, dull, crushing, or burning. Sometimes it can travel up the neck and into the jaw, down the arms, or even through to the back.
Chest pain is a common medical symptom. There are many causes and it does not always signify a problem with the heart. However, because chest pain may be caused by serious conditions, it is always important to seek medical advice.
Is it a heart problem?
Not all chest pain relates to the heart. There are many common conditions that may mimic cardiac chest pain.
The key cardiac causes of chest pain are
Angina – the blood supply to the heart is restricted due to narrowing of blood vessels
Heart attack – the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked
These two conditions can cause dull, sharp or heavy pain that spreads to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. They can make the chest feel very tight, and can cause additional symptoms such as breathlessness, clamminess, and nausea.
Angina
Angina, also called “Coronary Artery Disease” (CAD) is a disease of the arteries of the heart (coronary arteries). These arteries become narrowed over time due to the accumulation of fatty plaques in their walls. As the fatty deposits build up, the blood flow to the heart is gradually restricted. The disease remains silent for decades, meaning there are no symptoms until it becomes advanced.
Angina is typically triggered by physical activity, strong emotions, or stress. During these times the heart must work harder and so requires more oxygen. However, because the blood vessels supplying the heart are narrowed by CAD oxygen delivery is restricted, and this causes the symptoms of chest pain. Symptoms improve after a few minutes of rest.
Angina-like chest pain that lasts for more than 15 minutes or that occurs when resting, for example in bed at night time, are more likely to be signs of a heart attack and medical help should be sought immediately.
What other common problems cause chest pain?
Most chest pain is non-cardiac and isn’t a sign of a life-threatening condition. Some of the common causes of non-cardiac chest pain are detailed below.
How is chest pain investigated?
Finding the exact cause of chest pain requires