Chest pain is one of the most common medical complaints, and it can be both worrying and confusing.

Often associated with heart problems, chest pain can also result from several other conditions, some minor and others life-threatening.

In a fast-paced world like the UAE, where lifestyles can be stressful and sedentary, understanding the causes of chest pain and recognizing when to seek medical help is crucial.

In this blog, Karetrip delves into the possible causes of chest pain, how to differentiate normal pain from serious conditions, and when to get medical help.

Understanding Chest Pain: The Basics

Chest pain refers to any pain or discomfort in the chest area, extending from the neck to the upper abdomen. It can feel like sharp, stabbing pain, a burning sensation, or dull, aching discomfort. The severity of the pain doesn’t always correspond to the seriousness of the condition.

For example, mild chest pain could indicate a serious heart problem, while sharp pain might stem from a less serious issue like muscle strain. Paying attention to accompanying symptoms is essential to understanding the cause.

Common Causes of Chest Pain

Chest pain has various causes that fall into two main categories: cardiac (related to the heart) and non-cardiac (related to other systems).

Cardiac Causes

• Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to a clot. It causes severe chest pain that may radiate to the arms, back, or jaw. Symptoms often include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and dizziness.

• Angina

Angina is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Unlike a heart attack, angina is often triggered by physical activity or stress and subsides with rest.

• Pericarditis

Inflammation of the sac around the heart (the pericardium) can cause sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens when lying down or taking a deep breath.

• Aortic Dissection

Though rare, this life-threatening condition occurs when the aorta tears, leading to severe chest and back pain. Immediate medical attention is critical.

Non-Cardiac Causes

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD causes acid from the stomach to move into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and burning chest pain that mimics heart issues.

• Muscle Strain

Overexertion or injuries to the chest wall can result in localized chest pain that worsens with movement.

• Pulmonary Issues

Conditions like pneumonia, pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining), or a collapsed lung can cause sharp chest pain, often accompanied by difficulty breathing and a cough.

• Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Psychological conditions can trigger symptoms that feel like a heart attack, including chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, and sweating.

• Costochondritis

This is an inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone, causing localized tenderness and pain.

When Is Chest Pain Normal?

Not all chest pain warrants an emergency trip to the hospital. In some cases, the pain may be temporary and harmless

• Muscle Pain: If you've recently done strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, mild chest pain might simply be a muscle strain.

• Heartburn: If the pain follows a meal and feels like burning, it’s likely due to acid reflux.

• Stress-Related Pain: Anxiety can cause chest pain, especially during stressful events, but it often subsides once you calm down.

However, even mild chest pain should not be ignored if it lasts longer than expected or if it becomes more frequent.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Chest pain can be life-threatening in some cases. Here are the warning signs to look out for

• Severe, Crushing Pain: A sensation of extreme tightness or pressure in the chest.

• Radiating Pain: Discomfort spreading to the arms, back, neck, or jaw.

• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or gasping for air.

• Sweating and Dizziness: Accompanied by nausea or fainting.

• Chest Pain at Rest: Pain that occurs without physical activity, especially if it’s sudden.

• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Especially if paired with chest pain and fatigue.

In the UAE, you can access emergency medical services by dialing 998. Immediate help is vital if you suspect a heart attack or other serious condition.

Steps to Take During Chest Pain

If you or someone else experiences chest pain

• Stay Calm: Sit down, breathe slowly, and avoid panic, which can worsen symptoms.

• Call Emergency Services: Dial 998 for an ambulance in the UAE.

• Chew Aspirin: If a heart attack is suspected and you’re not allergic, chewing aspirin can help thin the blood.

• Avoid Physical Activity: Rest until medical professionals arrive.

• Take Antacids: If you suspect the pain is from acid reflux, over-the-counter remedies might help.

How Chest Pain is Diagnosed

Doctors will assess your symptoms and medical history, followed by diagnostic tests such as

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects abnormal heart rhythms or damage.

• Blood Tests: Checks for proteins that indicate a heart attack.

• X-Rays or CT Scans: Helps identify lung issues or structural abnormalities.

• Stress Tests: Evaluates how your heart performs under exertion.

The UAE boasts advanced medical facilities like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic City

Hospital, which are well-equipped to diagnose and treat chest pain.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause

• Heart Issues: Heart attacks may require medication, stents, or bypass surgery. Angina is often managed with medications and lifestyle changes.

• Lung Conditions: Infections like pneumonia are treated with antibiotics, while other lung issues might require oxygen therapy or surgery.

• GERD: Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medications can reduce symptoms.

• Muscle Pain: Rest, pain relievers, and gentle stretching can ease discomfort.

• Panic Attacks: Stress management, counseling, and medications may help reduce recurrence.

Preventing Chest Pain

Preventive care can reduce your risk of experiencing chest pain

• Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Include whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods and high-sodium meals.

• Exercise Regularly: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily.

• Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of heart disease.

• Manage Stress: Use techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to lower stress levels.

• Regular Checkups: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health routinely.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for many conditions causing chest pain.

• Limit Alcohol: Drinking excessively can strain your heart and cause GERD.

In the UAE, preventive healthcare programs are readily accessible to help you maintain your well-being.

Conclusion

Chest pain, regardless of its severity, should never be ignored. While some causes are harmless and temporary, others could signal serious, life-threatening conditions.

Understanding the type of chest pain you’re experiencing and acting quickly can save lives. If you’re in the UAE, you have access to excellent healthcare facilities that can help you diagnose and treat chest pain effectively.

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention if you’re unsure.