Chest pain located behind the breastbone: Reasons and when to consult a medical professional
In many public places, an automatic external defibrillator (AED) can be found, ready to provide a lifesaving shock during a heart attack. However, retrosternal chest pain, which refers to pain occurring in the space behind the sternum, can have causes beyond heart-related issues.
One such cause is pneumomediastinum, a condition where air finds its way into the mediastinum, the central compartment in the chest. This can result from trauma, prolonged coughing, interstitial lung disease, eating disorders, or air tracking from other body compartments. Pneumomediastinum can cause pain centered behind the sternum and can sometimes be potentially serious if tension pneumomediastinum develops.
Another non-cardiac cause is esophageal spasms, which can cause squeezing retrosternal pain that closely mimics cardiac ischemia. This pain is often accompanied by swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) and can be quite severe.
Autoimmune-related interstitial lung diseases, such as those associated with conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause chest discomfort or pain. These conditions may present with chest pain that is largely of pulmonary origin but not from classical lung parenchymal or muscular causes.
Other causes of retrosternal chest pain can stem from issues within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as gastritis, GERD, or sensitivity to food in the food pipe. Conditions that affect the skeleton, muscles, or tendons of the chest can also lead to chest pain.
Lung problems, including pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and lung cancer, can also cause retrosternal chest pain. A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, is a well-known cause of chest pain, but it's important to remember that other conditions can also present with similar symptoms.
It's crucial to note that a panic attack can also cause discomfort and physical symptoms that resemble those of a heart attack, including a racing heart and chest pain. Jaw pain can also be a sign of a heart attack, along with other symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, and feeling faint, weak, or lightheaded.
Costochondritis, which causes inflammation in the cartilage of the chest, can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. If a person experiences chest pain they cannot explain, they should seek medical attention immediately.
In the event of a heart attack, dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department and perform manual chest compressions if necessary. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain.
In summary, while heart-related issues are a common cause of chest pain, a variety of conditions affecting the lungs, muscles, skeletal system, and gastrointestinal tract can also lead to chest pain. If you experience chest pain, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to rule out any serious conditions.
- Pneumomediastinum, a condition that leads to air entering the mediastinum, can also cause pain behind the sternum, similar to heart-related issues.
- Esophageal spasms, known for causing squeezing retrosternal pain, can mimic heart-related chest pain.
- Autoimmune-related interstitial lung diseases, like systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause chest discomfort or pain.
- Issues within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as gastritis, GERD, or food sensitivity, can lead to retrosternal chest pain.
- Lung conditions, like pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and certain types of lung cancer, can also trigger retrosternal chest pain.
- A panic attack, resembling a heart attack with symptoms like a racing heart and chest pain, can cause discomfort and physical symptoms.
- Jaw pain, along with symptoms like chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, and feeling faint, weak, or lightheaded, can be a sign of a heart attack.
- Costochondritis, inflammation in the cartilage of the chest, can mimic heart attack symptoms and requires immediate medical attention if experienced.
- In the case of a heart attack, dial 911 or the nearest emergency department and perform manual chest compressions if necessary.
- Apart from heart-related issues, conditions affecting the lungs, muscles, skeletal system, GI tract, mental health, cardiovascular health, skin conditions, respiratory conditions, and fitness-and-exercise can all lead to chest pain, making it vital to seek medical attention promptly for unexplained chest pain.
