Chest Pain, Angina, Discomfort, or Tightness in the Chest

Chest pain, angina, discomfort, or tightness in the chest are symptoms that can indicate various underlying causes and related conditions, including

Common Causes of Chest Pain, Angina, Discomfort, or Tightness in the chest

1. Angina Pectoris: Typically caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to coronary artery disease (CAD). It often presents as chest discomfort or pressure during physical activity or stress.
2. Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): A sudden blockage of a coronary artery can lead to severe and prolonged chest pain, often radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or back. It’s a medical emergency.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid reflux into the esophagus can cause a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest, often mistaken for heart-related pain.
4. Musculoskeletal Issues: Conditions like costochondritis or muscle strain can result in chest pain, especially when moving or pressing on the chest wall.
5. Pleurisy: Inflammation of the lining around the lungs can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing.
6. Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lung’s arteries can lead to sudden and severe chest pain, along with shortness of breath.
7. Lung Conditions: Respiratory issues like pneumonia, bronchitis, or asthma can result in chest discomfort or tightness.
8. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: High stress or anxiety levels can manifest as chest pain or discomfort, often accompanied by palpitations and fear.
9. Pericarditis: Inflammation of the heart’s lining can cause chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or lying down.
10. Aortic Dissection: A tear in the aorta’s inner lining can cause intense, tearing chest pain and is a medical emergency.