Causes of Chest Pain that are not a Heart Attack

The first thing that comes to the mind when one has chest pain is- It's a HEART ATTACK. Well, it is not always so, and there can be a number of diseases and conditions behind this symptom. Here, we got you some of the causes of chest pain that are not heart attack every time!

Let's have a look at a few things that could be the causes of chest pain, below:

1. Muscle Strain-

Chest pain can also be caused due to the straining of the chest muscles. This results in stiffness or tenderness in the chest that is made worse by the movement of the muscle. To identify the difference between chest pain and heart attack, press against the wall of the heart, if the pain worsens, it is most likely to be the muscle strain. Usually, this pain worsens with activity.

2. Shingles-

Shingles are caused by a virus known as the varicella-zoster virus. The virus responsible for chickenpox remains in the body for a very long time. In fact, it may reoccur during adulthood, in people over the age of 50, as a disease known as shingles. When the chest area is affected, people mistake it for a heart attack, which is nothing but shingles. However, if you suspect shingles, set an appointment with your doctor.

3. Pancreatitis-

Pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas that is located just below the stomach. When the abdominal pain intensifies, it goes up to the chest, and the main reason behind it is gallstones. During pancreatitis, pain in the lower chest is worse when you lie flat and better when you lean forward.

4. Coronary Artery Disease-

The coronary artery disease is a heart disease that is caused due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This happens when cholesterol deposits around the walls of the arteries, which, in turn, blocks the blood flow, causing pain. Chest pain can be a result of exercise, emotional distress and excitement and is mostly relieved by adequate rest.

5. Panic Attack-

A panic attack has symptoms like chest pain, pounding heart, sweating, shaking, nausea and dizziness, among others. People who have family members with a history of panic attacks are prone to the disease. Pain attacks may also trigger chest pain if one is dealing with significant life changes or has been through a traumatic event.

6. Lung Cancer-

Patients with lung cancer often show symptoms like chest pain. The pain usually occurs on the same side as the tumour. Some of the other symptoms along with chest pain include a cough, shortness of breath and hemoptysis. Chest pain that occurs as a result of lung cancer gets worse after strenuous activities like coughing, laughing and deep breathing.

7. Pneumonia-

Pneumonia is a respiratory condition that is a result of a progression of bacteria, virus, and fungi in the lung. To identify pneumonia, one must look for symptoms like a cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and frequent headaches. If diagnosed early, pneumonia can be adequately treated with antibiotics.

8. Gastroesophageal reflux Disease-

It is a chronic digestive disease that can be identified when the stomach acid or content flows into the oesophagus. This damages the lining of the oesophagus, causing the disease. It is described as squeezing, burning behind the sternum which may sometimes radiate to the neck, jaw, back or arms. Most people manage the symptoms with medications and lifestyle changes, but some may require surgery to reduce symptoms.

9. Injured Ribs-

A person with an injured rib would experience intense pain during breathing or movement of the upper body. Even during minimal activity, a broken/ bruised rib can cause considerable damage. Broken bones often heal on their own, but it may take several weeks or months. Moreover, in severe cases, injured ribs may also lead to organ damage.