Non-cardiac causes of chest pain

Chest pain can be scary and disturbing, but it is not always related to cardiac problems.There are many other causes of this type of pain that can be equally serious.In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, necessary tests, and suggested treatment for chest pain that is not caused by heart problems.

Symptoms of chest pain

Chest pain can manifest itself in various ways.Some of the common symptoms include:

• Sharp, sudden pains.
• Tightening or suffocating pain.
• Burning pain.
• Feeling of heaviness in the chest.
• Pain radiating to the arms, back, neck or jaw.
• Dyspnoea.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Feeling anxious or panicky.

If you experience any of these symptoms, regardless of the cause, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Causes of chest pain

Chest pain can be caused by many different causes, not just heart problems.Here are some non-cardiac causes of this type of pain:

• Respiratory problems:Lung diseases such as pleurisy, asthma or pulmonary embolism can cause chest pain.
• Digestive system diseases:Gastroesophageal reflux, stomach ulcers and pancreatitis are examples of diseases that can cause pain in the chest area.
• Musculoskeletal problems:Muscle and rib injuries, as well as diseases such as myositis or arthritis, can lead to chest pain.
• Stress and anxiety:High levels of stress and anxiety can lead to chest pain, especially in the case of panic attacks.

Chest pain – what tests need to be performed?

Diagnosing the cause of chest pain is crucial for appropriate treatment.Necessary tests may include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG):A standard heart test that helps rule out cardiac problems.
• Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):Used to visualize internal organs and detect structural changes.
• Blood tests:Laboratory tests, such as testing for cardiac enzymes or inflammatory markers, can provide important information.
• Imaging tests:If problems with the respiratory or digestive system are suspected, tests such as spirometry or endoscopy may be ordered.

Additional tests needed in some cases of chest pain

In some situations, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Allergy testing:If allergies are suspected as the cause of the pain, skin tests or blood tests may be performed.
• Hormonal tests:If hormonal problems, such as hyperthyroidism, are suspected, hormone tests are performed.
• Genetic testing:In some cases, especially when hereditary conditions are suspected, genetic testing may be needed.

Your suggestions

If you have experienced chest pain and it has been diagnosed as a non-cardiac cause, do not ignore the problem.Consult your doctor to determine the exact cause and begin appropriate treatment.Remember that a quick reaction may be crucial to your health.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of chest pain and its various causes, we recommend that you read the following articles:

• Chest pain – how to recognize a heart attack?
• Respiratory diseases as a cause of chest pain.
• Stress and anxiety and chest pain – how to deal with it?

Remember that if you experience chest pain, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor to receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.