Chest pain is the second leading cause of ER visits every year. Many people of all ages suffer from chest discomfort, which is frequently an indication of a medical condition. However, not every chest discomfort indicates a life-threatening health problem. Chest discomfort can be caused by various factors, some of which are severe while others are not. Here are some of the most prevalent causes of chest discomfort and how your cardiovascular physician Frisco, TX can identify them.
1. Panic attack
Every year, around 11% of Americans suffer from a panic attack, which causes trouble breathing, a racing heart, and sweating. Because you frequently lose control and suffer chest discomfort, panic attacks share some of the same symptoms as a heart attack. Also, panic episodes are terrifying, but they are not fatal.
2. Asthma
Asthma is a common lung illness characterized by wheezing, trouble breathing, chest tightness, and coughing. Chest discomfort can be caused by asthma; however, it is more prevalent during an asthma episode. An asthma attack happens when the airways in the lungs enlarge, forcing them to contract. Asthma episodes may be serious and necessitate emergency room visits. See a doctor about the risks and treatment choices if you or a loved one is enduring asthma symptoms.
3. Myocarditis
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the myocardium or heart muscle. Due to the heart’s inability to pump adequately, this inflammation can cause a fast pulse. Symptoms include chest discomfort, tiredness, and an irregular heartbeat.
4. Hypertension
Hypertension occurs when your blood pressure is greater than usual. Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood on your artery walls. High blood pressure increases your heart disease, stroke, and heart attack risk. Because of the reduced blood flow and oxygen to your heart caused by high blood pressure, chest discomfort is prevalent. To avoid heart disease and heart attacks, it is critical to control hypertension with a healthy lifestyle and, if required, medication.
5. Heart attack
Heart attacks are life-threatening and need rapid medical intervention. It is vital to understand the signs of a heart attack so you can identify it from other types of chest discomfort. A heart attack causes chest pain that feels like pressure or squeezing and lasts more than a few minutes. Other locations of discomfort include the arm, back, neck, and jaw. Nausea and lightheadedness are other possible side effects.
6. Muscle strain
Muscle strains can cause chest discomfort in several places, including the chest or around the ribs. If your chest discomfort worsens with exercise or physical exertion, this is an indication that you have a muscle strain. It is better to relax and let the muscle recover when this occurs.
There are several causes of chest discomfort. However, any significant chest discomfort requires immediate medical treatment, especially if it radiates to the arm, back, or neck, if the heart rate increases, or if the individual has difficulty breathing. If you are experiencing chest discomfort, you should seek medical attention to rule out life-threatening causes and undergo appropriate treatment. Call Prime Heart and Vascular or book your appointment online to determine which chest pain treatments are ideal for you.
