What are the possible causes of rib cage pain? A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause through physical examination and imaging scans.

Rib Cage Pain: Common Causes

Rib cage pain can have various underlying causes, and a doctor’s examination and imaging scans are crucial for proper diagnosis. Some of the most common reasons for rib cage discomfort include:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest, such as from falls, traffic collisions, or sports-related contact, is the most frequent cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include broken ribs, bruised ribs, fractured ribs, and pulled muscles. Rib cage pain that begins after an injury is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to detect bone breaks and fractures, while MRIs and other scans can identify soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

Costochondritis, also known as Tietze’s syndrome, is another common cause of rib cage pain. This condition involves inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage, usually in the area where the upper ribs connect to the sternum (the costosternal joint). Rib cage pain from costochondritis can range from mild to severe, with symptoms including tenderness and pain when touching the chest area. In severe cases, the pain can radiate down the limbs or interfere with daily activities. Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the linings of the lungs and chest. The pleura, which are thin tissues lining the chest wall and the lungs, become inflamed and rub against each other, leading to significant pain. While pleurisy was more common in the past, it is now less prevalent due to the widespread use of antibiotics. Even when it does occur, pleurisy is often a mild condition that resolves on its own within a few days to 2 weeks. Other inflammatory lung conditions, such as bronchitis, may also cause rib cage pain.

4. Cancer

Lung cancer, the second most common cancer in the United States, can cause rib cage pain or chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms of lung cancer include a prolonged cough, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood or phlegm. Early-stage lung cancer has a better prognosis, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Metastatic lung cancer, where the cancer spreads to the lungs from another area, is also a life-threatening condition that can cause rib cage pain.

5. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body, including in the rib cage. Affecting an estimated 2-4 percent of the population, up to 90 percent of whom are women, fibromyalgia can cause burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching pains in the rib cage and other areas. Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including rib cage pain, is the most common co-existing condition leading to hospital admission in people with fibromyalgia.

6. Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an artery in the lungs becomes blocked, often by a blood clot that has traveled from the legs. In addition to rib cage pain, PE can cause shortness of breath, rapid breathing, coughing (including coughing up blood), anxiety, lightheadedness, sweating, and irregular heartbeat. PE is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood, and it requires prompt medical attention. Untreated, approximately 30 percent of people with PE will die, but a quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

The Rib Cage: Anatomy and Protection

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs, 12 on each side, and it shields the vital organs of the chest, including the heart and lungs, from damage. The ribs are attached to the breastbone, or sternum, at the front by cartilage, and to the spine at the back. The liver is located at the lower end of the rib cage on the right, and the spleen is on the left, both receiving some protection from the rib bones. The gallbladder and kidneys also lie just below the rib cage.

When any of the components of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage, or the nearby organs, are affected by injury or illness, a person will experience pain in or around the rib cage.

6 possible causes of rib cage pain

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain. A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause by a physical examination and imaging scans.

Common reasons for rib cage pain include:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact is the most common cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include:

• broken ribs
• bruised ribs
• fractured ribs
• pulled muscle

Rib cage pain that begins following injury is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to highlight bone breaks and fractures. MRIs and other scans can detect soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

Costochondritis or Tietze’s syndrome is another common cause of rib cage pain.

This condition is characterized by inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage that joins the upper ribs to the sternum, an area called the costosternal joint.

Rib cage pain due to costochondritis ranges from mild to severe. Symptoms include tenderness and pain when touching the chest area. Severe cases can lead to pain that radiates down the limbs, or pain that interferes with daily life.

Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the linings of the lungs and chest.

The pleura are thin tissues that line the wall of the chest and the lungs. In their healthy state, they smoothly slide across one another. However, inflammation causes them to rub, leading to significant pain.

Since the advent of antibiotics, pleurisy is much less common than it was. Even when it does occur, it is often a mild condition that resolves on its own. Pleurisy usually lasts from a few days to 2 weeks.

Other inflammatory conditions of the lungs, such as bronchitis, may also cause pain around the rib cage.

4. Cancer

Share on PinterestOther symptoms of lung cancer include a prolonged cough and shortness of breath.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States.

One of the symptoms of lung cancer is rib cage pain or chest pain that gets worse upon breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms to look out for include coughing up blood or phlegm, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

The outlook for lung cancer is poorer than other forms of cancer and is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. People with early-stage lung cancer have a better chance of being cured, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that begins in one area and spreads to the lungs, is a life-threatening condition. It will also cause pain in the rib cage or chest.

5. Fibromyalgia

This is a chronic condition, causing pain throughout the body. Fibromyalgia is estimated by the American College of Rheumatology to affect between 2-4 percent of people, up to 90 percent of whom are women.

The pain associated with fibromyalgia may be burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching. These pains are commonly felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.

Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including rib cage pain, is the most common co-existing condition that leads to hospital admission in people with fibromyalgia.

6. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is when an artery going into the lungs becomes blocked. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot that has traveled up from one of the legs.

As well as rib cage pain, PE can cause the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath
• rapid breathing
• coughing, including coughing up blood
• anxiety
• lightheadedness
• sweating
• irregular heartbeat

PE is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who experiences the symptoms of PE should see a doctor.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute estimate that 30 percent of people who develop PE will die if they do not receive treatment. Fortunately, a quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs, 12 on either side, and it shields the organs of the chest, including the heart and the lungs, from damage.

The ribs are attached to the breastbone, which is the long bone that runs down the center of the chest. They are attached at the front, by cartilage, which is a firm yet flexible tissue. At the back, they are attached to the spine.

The liver is located at the lower end of the rib cage on the right and the spleen is on the left. Both are given some protection by the rib bones. The gallbladder and kidneys lie just below the rib cage.

If any of the components of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage, or the organs nearby are affected by injury or illness, a person will have pain in or near the rib cage.

6 possible causes of rib cage pain

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain. A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause by a physical examination and imaging scans.

Common reasons for rib cage pain include:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact is the most common cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include:

• broken ribs
• bruised ribs
• fractured ribs
• pulled muscle

Rib cage pain that begins following injury is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to highlight bone breaks and fractures. MRIs and other scans can detect soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

Costochondritis or Tietze’s syndrome is another common cause of rib cage pain.

This condition is characterized by inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage that joins the upper ribs to the sternum, an area called the costosternal joint.

Rib cage pain due to costochondritis ranges from mild to severe. Symptoms include tenderness and pain when touching the chest area. Severe cases can lead to pain that radiates down the limbs, or pain that interferes with daily life.

Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the linings of the lungs and chest.

The pleura are thin tissues that line the wall of the chest and the lungs. In their healthy state, they smoothly slide across one another. However, inflammation causes them to rub, leading to significant pain.

Since the advent of antibiotics, pleurisy is much less common than it was. Even when it does occur, it is often a mild condition that resolves on its own. Pleurisy usually lasts from a few days to 2 weeks.

Other inflammatory conditions of the lungs, such as bronchitis, may also cause pain around the rib cage.

4. Cancer

Share on PinterestOther symptoms of lung cancer include a prolonged cough and shortness of breath.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States.

One of the symptoms of lung cancer is rib cage pain or chest pain that gets worse upon breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms to look out for include coughing up blood or phlegm, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

The outlook for lung cancer is poorer than other forms of cancer and is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. People with early-stage lung cancer have a better chance of being cured, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that begins in one area and spreads to the lungs, is a life-threatening condition. It will also cause pain in the rib cage or chest.

5. Fibromyalgia

This is a chronic condition, causing pain throughout the body. Fibromyalgia is estimated by the American College of Rheumatology to affect between 2-4 percent of people, up to 90 percent of whom are women.

The pain associated with fibromyalgia may be burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching. These pains are commonly felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.

Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including rib cage pain, is the most common co-existing condition that leads to hospital admission in people with fibromyalgia.

6. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is when an artery going into the lungs becomes blocked. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot that has traveled up from one of the legs.

As well as rib cage pain, PE can cause the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath
• rapid breathing
• coughing, including coughing up blood
• anxiety
• lightheadedness
• sweating
• irregular heartbeat

PE is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who experiences the symptoms of PE should see a doctor.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute estimate that 30 percent of people who develop PE will die if they do not receive treatment. Fortunately, a quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs, 12 on either side, and it shields the organs of the chest, including the heart and the lungs, from damage.

The ribs are attached to the breastbone, which is the long bone that runs down the center of the chest. They are attached at the front, by cartilage, which is a firm yet flexible tissue. At the back, they are attached to the spine.

The liver is located at the lower end of the rib cage on the right and the spleen is on the left. Both are given some protection by the rib bones. The gallbladder and kidneys lie just below the rib cage.

If any of the components of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage, or the organs nearby are affected by injury or illness, a person will have pain in or near the rib cage.

6 possible causes of rib cage pain

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain. A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause by a physical examination and imaging scans.

Common reasons for rib cage pain include:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact is the most common cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include:

• broken ribs
• bruised ribs
• fractured ribs
• pulled muscle

Rib cage pain that begins following injury is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to highlight bone breaks and fractures. MRIs and other scans can detect soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

Costochondritis or Tietze’s syndrome is another common cause of rib cage pain.

This condition is characterized by inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage that joins the upper ribs to the sternum, an area called the costosternal joint.

Rib cage pain due to costochondritis ranges from mild to severe. Symptoms include tenderness and pain when touching the chest area. Severe cases can lead to pain that radiates down the limbs, or pain that interferes with daily life.

Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the linings of the lungs and chest.

The pleura are thin tissues that line the wall of the chest and the lungs. In their healthy state, they smoothly slide across one another. However, inflammation causes them to rub, leading to significant pain.

Since the advent of antibiotics, pleurisy is much less common than it was. Even when it does occur, it is often a mild condition that resolves on its own. Pleurisy usually lasts from a few days to 2 weeks.

Other inflammatory conditions of the lungs, such as bronchitis, may also cause pain around the rib cage.

4. Cancer

Share on PinterestOther symptoms of lung cancer include a prolonged cough and shortness of breath.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States.

One of the symptoms of lung cancer is rib cage pain or chest pain that gets worse upon breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms to look out for include coughing up blood or phlegm, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

The outlook for lung cancer is poorer than other forms of cancer and is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. People with early-stage lung cancer have a better chance of being cured, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that begins in one area and spreads to the lungs, is a life-threatening condition. It will also cause pain in the rib cage or chest.

5. Fibromyalgia

This is a chronic condition, causing pain throughout the body. Fibromyalgia is estimated by the American College of Rheumatology to affect between 2-4 percent of people, up to 90 percent of whom are women.

The pain associated with fibromyalgia may be burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching. These pains are commonly felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.

Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including rib cage pain, is the most common co-existing condition that leads to hospital admission in people with fibromyalgia.

6. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is when an artery going into the lungs becomes blocked. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot that has traveled up from one of the legs.

As well as rib cage pain, PE can cause the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath
• rapid breathing
• coughing, including coughing up blood
• anxiety
• lightheadedness
• sweating
• irregular heartbeat

PE is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who experiences the symptoms of PE should see a doctor.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute estimate that 30 percent of people who develop PE will die if they do not receive treatment. Fortunately, a quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs, 12 on either side, and it shields the organs of the chest, including the heart and the lungs, from damage.

The ribs are attached to the breastbone, which is the long bone that runs down the center of the chest. They are attached at the front, by cartilage, which is a firm yet flexible tissue. At the back, they are attached to the spine.

The liver is located at the lower end of the rib cage on the right and the spleen is on the left. Both are given some protection by the rib bones. The gallbladder and kidneys lie just below the rib cage.

If any of the components of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage, or the organs nearby are affected by injury or illness, a person will have pain in or near the rib cage.

6 possible causes of rib cage pain

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain. A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause by a physical examination and imaging scans.

Common reasons for rib cage pain include:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact is the most common cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include:

• broken ribs
• bruised ribs
• fractured ribs
• pulled muscle

Rib cage pain that begins following injury is typically diagnosed with an X-ray to highlight bone breaks and fractures. MRIs and other scans can detect soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

Costochondritis or Tietze’s syndrome is another common cause of rib cage pain.

This condition is characterized by inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage that joins the upper ribs to the sternum, an area called the costosternal joint.

Rib cage pain due to costochondritis ranges from mild to severe. Symptoms include tenderness and pain when touching the chest area. Severe cases can lead to pain that radiates down the limbs, or pain that interferes with daily life.

Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the linings of the lungs and chest.

The pleura are thin tissues that line the wall of the chest and the lungs. In their healthy state, they smoothly slide across one another. However, inflammation causes them to rub, leading to significant pain.

Since the advent of antibiotics, pleurisy is much less common than it was. Even when it does occur, it is often a mild condition that resolves on its own. Pleurisy usually lasts from a few days to 2 weeks.

Other inflammatory conditions of the lungs, such as bronchitis, may also cause pain around the rib cage.

4. Cancer

Share on PinterestOther symptoms of lung cancer include a prolonged cough and shortness of breath.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States.

One of the symptoms of lung cancer is rib cage pain or chest pain that gets worse upon breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms to look out for include coughing up blood or phlegm, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

The outlook for lung cancer is poorer than other forms of cancer and is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. People with early-stage lung cancer have a better chance of being cured, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that begins in one area and spreads to the lungs, is a life-threatening condition. It will also cause pain in the rib cage or chest.

5. Fibromyalgia

This is a chronic condition, causing pain throughout the body. Fibromyalgia is estimated by the American College of Rheumatology to affect between 2-4 percent of people, up to 90 percent of whom are women.

The pain associated with fibromyalgia may be burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching. These pains are commonly felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.

Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including rib cage pain, is the most common co-existing condition that leads to hospital admission in people with fibromyalgia.

6. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is when an artery going into the lungs becomes blocked. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot that has traveled up from one of the legs.

As well as rib cage pain, PE can cause the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath
• rapid breathing
• coughing, including coughing up blood
• anxiety
• lightheadedness
• sweating
• irregular heartbeat

PE is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who experiences the symptoms of PE should see a doctor.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute estimate that 30 percent of people who develop PE will die if they do not receive treatment. Fortunately, a quick diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs, 12 on either side, and it shields the organs of the chest, including the heart and the lungs, from damage.

The ribs are attached to the breastbone, which is the long bone that runs down the center of the chest. They are attached at the front, by cartilage, which is a firm yet flexible tissue. At the back, they are attached to the spine.

The liver is located at the lower end of the rib cage on the right and the spleen is on the left. Both are given some protection by the rib bones. The gallbladder and kidneys lie just below the rib cage.

If any of the components of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage, or the organs nearby are affected by injury or illness, a person will have pain in or near the rib cage.

Costochondritis – NHS

Costochondritis is the medical term for inflammation of the cartilage that joins your ribs to your breastbone (sternum). This area is known as the costochondral joint.

Cartilage is tough but flexible connective tissue found throughout the body, including in the joints between bones.

It acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the joints.

Costochondritis may improve on its own after a few weeks, although it can last for several months or more.

The condition does not lead to any permanent problems, but may sometimes relapse.

Tietze’s syndrome

Costochondritis may be confused with a separate condition called Tietze’s syndrome.

Both conditions involve inflammation of the costochondral joint and can cause very similar symptoms.

But Tietze’s syndrome is much less common and often causes chest swelling, which may last after any pain and tenderness has gone.

Costochondritis also tends to affect adults aged 40 or over, whereas Tietze’s syndrome usually affects young adults under 40.

As the conditions are very similar, most of the information below also applies to Tietze’s syndrome.

Signs and symptoms of costochondritis

When the costochondral joint becomes inflamed, it can result in sharp chest pain and tenderness, which may develop gradually or start suddenly.

The pain may be made worse by:

• a particular posture, such as lying down
• pressure on your chest, such as wearing a seatbelt or hugging someone
• deep breathing, coughing and sneezing
• physical activity

When to seek medical help

It can be difficult to tell the difference between the chest pain associated with costochondritis and pain caused by more serious conditions, such as a heart attack.

But a heart attack usually causes more widespread pain and additional symptoms, such as breathlessness, feeling sick and sweating.

If you or someone you’re with experiences sudden chest pain and you think there’s a possibility it could be a heart attack, dial 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.

If you have had chest pain for a while, do not ignore it. Make an appointment to see a GP so they can investigate the cause.

Causes of costochondritis

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection, irritation or injury.

It’s not known exactly why the costochondral joint becomes inflamed, but in some cases it’s been linked to:

• severe coughing, which strains your chest area
• an injury to your chest
• physical strain from repeated exercise or sudden exertion you’re not used to, such as moving furniture
• an infection, including respiratory tract infections and wound infections
• wear and tear – your chest moves in and out 20 to 30 times a minute, and over time this motion can lead to discomfort in these joints

Diagnosing costochondritis

If you have symptoms of costochondritis, a GP will probably examine and touch the upper chest area around your costochondral joint.

They may ask you when and where your pain occurs and look at your recent medical history.

Before a diagnosis can be confirmed, some tests may need to be carried out to rule out other possible causes of your chest pain.

These may include:

If no other condition is suspected or found, a diagnosis of costrochondritis may be made.

Self-help for costochondritis

Costochondritis can be aggravated by any activity that places stress on your chest area, such as strenuous exercise or even simple movements like reaching up to a high cupboard.

Any activity that makes the pain in your chest area worse should be avoided until the inflammation in your ribs and cartilage has improved.

You may also find it soothing to regularly apply heat to the painful area, such as using a cloth or flannel that’s been warmed with hot water.

Treatments for costochondritis

Painkillers

Painkillers, such as paracetamol, can be used to ease mild to moderate pain.

Taking a type of medication called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, 2 or 3 times a day can also help control the pain and swelling. 

Aspirin is also a suitable alternative, but should not be given to children under 16 years old.

These medicines are available from pharmacies without a prescription, but you should make sure you carefully read the instructions that come with them before use.

NSAIDs are not suitable for people with certain health conditions, including:

Contact a GP if your symptoms get worse despite resting and taking painkillers, as you may benefit from treatment with corticosteroids.

Corticosteroid injections

Corticosteroids are powerful medicines that can help reduce pain and swelling.

They can be injected into and around your costochondral joint to help relieve the symptoms of costochondritis.

Corticosteroid injections may be recommended if your pain is severe, or if NSAIDs are unsuitable or ineffective.

They may be given by a GP, or you may need to be referred to a specialist called a rheumatologist.

Having too many corticosteroid injections can damage your costochondral joint, so you may only be able to have this type of treatment once every few months if you continue to experience pain.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

TENS is a method of pain relief where a mild electric current is delivered to the affected area using a small battery-operated device. 

The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles.

They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.

Although TENS may be used to help relieve pain in a wide range of conditions, it does not work for everyone.

There’s not enough good-quality scientific evidence to say for sure whether TENS is a reliable method of pain relief.

Speak to a GP if you’re considering TENS.

Find out more about transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Community content from HealthUnlocked

Page last reviewed: 24 April 2019
Next review due: 24 April 2022

10 Rib Pain Causes, Treatments & More

What causes pain in or around the ribs?

Rib pain, or pain in the chest wall that feels like it comes from a rib, has a variety of causes. Rib pain following any sort of trauma to the chest wall is the most concerning, and is possibly due to a rib fracture, clavicle or sternal fracture, or internal injury to the lungs or other organs in the chest. Seek emergency medical treatment for rib pain following traumatic injury. Rib pain without traumatic injury may be due to muscular strain, joint inflammation, or a pain syndrome of unknown cause. Some systemic illness such as autoimmune disorders or fibromyalgia also cause rib pain.

Causes of rib pain following trauma

The following injuries will result in rib pain.

• Rib fracture: Rib fractures are common following trauma to the chest wall and can be extremely painful. Rib fractures usually present with focal pain along a rib and may present with chest deformity or difficulty breathing. It is common for chest wall trauma such as a fall or car accident to cause multiple rib fractures at the same time.
• Clavicle or sternal fracture: The clavicle (collarbone) or the sternum (the bone in the center of the chest) can also be fractured due to trauma and causes pain in the chest similar to rib pain.
• Lung bruising: Trauma to the chest can lead to pulmonary contusion or bruising to the lung tissue. This can cause significant pain to the chest wall that might mimic rib pain. It is possible to have both rib fracture and pulmonary contusion following chest trauma.
• Internal injuries: Any significant trauma to the chest wall can result in internal injuries. Chest wall trauma always requires emergent evaluation by a physician to identify and treat injuries.

Musculoskeletal chest pain causes

Rib pain may be the result of musculoskeletal issues, such as the following.

• Rib joint inflammation: There is a junction between the rib bones and the rib cartilage that can become inflamed and cause rib pain or chest pain. The cause of this inflammation and pain is unknown. Costochondritis occurs when the inflammation is at the rib attachments to the sternum.
• Pulled muscle: There are small muscles in between each rib that can become strained or pulled. Heavy lifting or intense coughing are two common causes of chest wall muscle strain. Strained muscles in the chest can cause pain that feels like rib pain.
• Pain syndromes: There are several pain syndromes that cause rib pain. A pain syndrome is defined as chronic pain with an unclear cause. Lower rib pain syndrome, Sternalis syndrome, and Tietze syndrome are some examples of pain syndromes that present with rib pain.

Other causes

Other causes of rib pain may include the following.

• Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that presents with multiple tender points as well as sleep disturbance and depression. Chest pain is common in fibromyalgia and can feel like rib pain.
• Autoimmune disorders: Some autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis present with pain the in the chest. This is often pain at the junction between the rib bone and the rib cartilage and can feel like rib pain.
• Other systemic illness: Some less common illness such as lung cancer, breast cancer, or sickle cell disease and present with pain in the chest that feels like rib pain.

9 rib pain conditions

Acute costochondritis (chest wall syndrome)

Acute costochondritis is the inflammation of the flexible cartilage that connects each rib to the breastbone. Costochondritis is caused by excessive coughing or by straining the upper body, as with weightlifti..

Normal occurence of chest pain

Sometimes chest pain is not a sign of a heart attack. The following symptoms are usually typical of more benign conditions:

If the pain is brief, like a short shock, and subsides right away, it is most likely from an injury such as a broken rib or pulled muscle in the chest.

Sharp pain in the chest that improves with exercise is probably from acid reflux or a similar condition, and will be eased with antacids.

A small, sharp pain anywhere in the chest that actually feels worse on breathing is probably from a lung inflammation such as pneumonia or asthma.

An actual heart attack involves intense, radiating chest pain that lasts for several minutes; worsens with activity; and is accompanied by nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pain in the arms, back, or jaw. Take the patient to the emergency room or call 9-1-1.

If there is any question as to whether the symptoms are serious or not, a medical provider should be seen as soon as possible.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: chest pain, rib pain

Symptoms that always occur with normal occurrence of chest pain: chest pain

Symptoms that never occur with normal occurrence of chest pain: being severely ill, shortness of breath, fainting, severe chest pain, crushing chest pain, excessive sweating, nausea or vomiting

Urgency: Phone call or in-person visit

Atypical chest pain

Atypical chest pain describes the situation when someone’s chest pain is unlikely to be related to heart or lung disease. There are many other possible causes that could explain chest pain, like sore chest wall muscles or psychological factors like stress and anxiety.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: chest pain, shortness of breath

Symptoms that always occur with atypical chest pain: chest pain

Symptoms that never occur with atypical chest pain: fever

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Chronic costochondritis (chest wall syndrome)

Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. Pain caused by costochondritis may mimic that of a heart attack or other heart conditions.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: rib pain, chest pain, chest pain that is worse when breathing, rib pain when moving, pain when pressing on the chest

Urgency: Phone call or in-person visit

Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is an inflammatory reaction to an infection in the airways. Most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by a viral infection, although some cases may be due to a bacterial infection.

Symptoms include an acute-onset cough with or without sputum production, low-grade fever, shortness of breat..

Rib bruise or fracture

Broken or bruised ribs are usually caused by a fall or a blow to the chest, although occasionally this can happen due to severe coughing. With a broken rib, the pain is worse when bending and twisting the body.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: rib pain that gets worse when breathing, coughing, sneezing, or laughing, rib pain from an injury, sports injury, rib pain on one side, injury from a common fall

Symptoms that always occur with rib bruise or fracture: rib pain from an injury

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Bacterial pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by one of several different bacteria, often Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumonia is often contracted in hospitals or nursing homes.

Symptoms include fatigue, fever, chills, painful and difficult breathing, and cough that brings up mucus. Elderly patients may have low body temperature and confusion.

Pneumonia can be a medical emergency for very young children or those over age 65, as well as anyone with a weakened immune system or a chronic heart or lung condition. Emergency room is only needed for severe cases or for those with immune deficiency.

Diagnosis is made through blood tests and chest x-ray.

With bacterial pneumonia, the treatment is antibiotics. Be sure to finish all the medication, even if you start to feel better. Hospitalization may be necessary for higher-risk cases.

Some types of bacterial pneumonia can be prevented through vaccination. Flu shots help, too, by preventing another illness from taking hold. Keep the immune system healthy through good diet and sleep habits, not smoking, and frequent handwashing.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: fatigue, cough, headache, loss of appetite, shortness of breath

Symptoms that always occur with bacterial pneumonia: cough

Urgency: In-person visit

Viral pneumonia

Viral pneumonia, also called “viral walking pneumonia,” is an infection of the lung tissue with influenza (“flu”) or other viruses.

These viruses spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Those with weakened immune systems are most susceptible, such as young children, the elderly, and anyone receiving chemotherapy or organ transplant medications.

Symptoms may be mild at first. Most common are cough showing mucus or blood; high fever with shaking chills; shortness of breath; headache; fatigue; and sharp chest pain on deep breathing or coughing.

Medical care is needed right away. If not treated, viral pneumonia can lead to respiratory and organ failure.

Diagnosis is made through chest x-ray. A blood draw or nasal swab may be done for further testing.

Antibiotics do not work against viruses and will not help viral pneumonia. Treatment involves antiviral drugs, corticosteroids, oxygen, pain/fever reducers such as ibuprofen, and fluids. IV (intravenous) fluids may be needed to prevent dehydration.

Prevention consists of flu shots as well as frequent and thorough handwashing.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: fatigue, headache, cough, shortness of breath, loss of appetite

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Chest bruise

A bruise is the damage of the blood vessels that return blood to the heart (the capillaries and veins), which causes pooling of the blood. This explains the blue/purple color of most bruises. Bruises of the chest are common, given how exposed this area of the body is.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: rib pain, constant rib pain, rib pain from an injury, recent chest injury, bruised chest area

Symptoms that always occur with chest bruise: rib pain from an injury, recent chest injury, constant rib pain

Urgency: Self-treatment

Causes of Rib Cage Pain

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain or pain that seems to come from the area around your ribs. These can range from conditions that are primarily a nuisance to those that are life-threatening.

We will look at common and uncommon causes musculoskeletal causes of this pain, as well as causes that may be felt in the rib cage but instead originates in organs within or outside of the rib cage. When the cause of rib pain is uncertain, a careful history and physical exam can help guide you and your doctor to choose any labs or imaging studies that are needed.

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Rib Cage Anatomy and Structure

When looking at potential causes and how rib cage pain is evaluated, it’s helpful to think about the structures in and around the rib cage.

Bony Structure

There are 12 ribs on each side of the chest. The upper seven ribs are attached directly to the breastbone (sternum) via cartilage. These are known as the “true ribs.” The remaining five ribs are referred to as the “false ribs.”

Of these, ribs eight through 10 are also attached to the sternum, but indirectly (they attach to the cartilage of the rib above which ultimately attaches to the sternum). Ribs 11 and 12 are not attached to the sternum either directly or indirectly and are called the floating ribs.

There can be variations to this pattern, with some people having an extra set of rubs and some have fewer ribs (primarily the floating ribs).

Surrounding Structures

In addition to the bones that make up the ribs, sternum, and spine, as well as the attaching cartilage, there are many other structures associated with the rib cage that could potentially cause pain. This includes the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs) and the diaphragm (the large muscle at the base of the chest cavity), ligaments, nerves, blood vessels, and lymph nodes.

Organs Within the Rib Cage

The rib cage functions to protect several organs while allowing movement so that the lungs can expand with each breath.

Organs protected by the rib cage include the:

• Heart
• Great vessels (the thoracic aorta and part of the superior and inferior vena cava)
• Lungs and pleura (lining of the lungs)
• Upper digestive tract (esophagus and stomach)
• Liver (on the right side at the bottom of the rib cage)
• Spleen (on the left side at the bottom of the rib cage)

The area between the lungs, called the mediastinum, also contains many blood vessels, nerves, lymph nodes, and other structures.

Organs Outside of the Rib Cage

Organs not within the rib cage but that can sometimes cause pain that feels like it comes from the rib cage include the gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys. The skin overlying the rib cage may also be affected by conditions (such as shingles) which cause rib cage pain.

Anatomical Variations

There are a number of variations that may be found in the rib cage that can, in turn, lead to or affect symptoms in this region.

• Extra ribs: An extra rib lies above the first rib in 0.5% to 1% of the population and is called a cervical rib or neck rib.
• Missing ribs, most often one of the floating ribs
• Bifurcated (bifid) ribs, a condition present from birth in which the rib splits into two parts by the sternum
• Pigeon chest (pectus carinatum), a deformity in which the ribs and sternum stick out from the body
• Sunken chest (pectus excavatum), in which abnormal growth of the ribs results in the chest having a sunken appearance

Causes

There are many potential causes of pain that feels like it arises from the rib cage, including injuries, inflammation, infection, cancer, and referred pain from organs such as the heart, lungs, spleen, and liver.

In an outpatient clinic setting (such as a family practice clinic), musculoskeletal conditions are the most common cause of rib cage pain. In the emergency room, however, serious conditions that mimic rib cage pain (such as a pulmonary embolism) are more common.

We will look at some of the common and uncommon musculoskeletal causes or rib cage pain, as well as causes that may arise from organs within or outside of the rib cage.

Common Musculoskeletal Causes

Some of the more common musculoskeletal causes of rib cage pain include:

Injuries

Muscle strains may occur with an injury or even coughing or bending. Rib fractures are relatively common and can sometimes cause intense pain. Ribs can also be bruised (bone bruise) without a fracture.

The sternum is infrequently fractured, but chest trauma can result in a number of abnormalities ranging from single fractures to flail chest. With osteoporosis, rib fractures can sometimes occur with very little trauma.

Inflammation

Costochondritis is an inflammatory condition that involves the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. The condition is common, and can sometimes mimic a heart attack with the type of pain that occurs.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a relatively common cause of rib cage pain and can be challenging to both diagnose and treat (it’s primarily a diagnosis of exclusion). Along with pain and morning stiffness, people with the disorder often experience mental fog, fatigue, and other annoying symptoms.

Rheumatoid Conditions

Common rheumatoid conditions that can cause rib cage pain include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

Intercostal Neuralgia

Intercostal neuralgia is a condition in which nerve pain (neuropathic pain) arises from an injury, shingles, nerve impingement, and more. It can be challenging both to diagnose and treat.

Slipping Rib Syndrome

Slipping rib syndrome (also called lower rib pain syndrome, rib tip syndrome, or 12th rib syndrome) is thought to be under-diagnosed and can cause significant pain in the lower ribs (the floating ribs). In the condition, it’s thought that overly mobile floating ribs slip under the ribs above and pinch the intercostal nerves, nerves that supply the muscles that run between the ribs.

Other

Other relatively common causes can include pain related to conditions involving the thoracic spine (which not uncommonly causes chest pain in the front of the rib cage), Sternalis syndrome, and painful xiphoid syndrome (the xiphoid is the pointy bony growth at the bottom of the sternum).

Less Common Musculoskeletal Causes

Less common, but significant musculoskeletal causes of rib cage pain can include:

Rib Stress Fractures

Rib stress fractures are an overuse injury commonly seen with activities such as rowing or backpacking. They can be challenging to diagnose, so it is important to let your doctor know what type of exercises and sports you participate in.

Tietze Syndrome

Tietze syndrome is similar to costochondritis but less common. Unlike costochondritis, there is swelling that accompanies the inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum.

Malignancies

A number of cancers can lead to rib cage pain. Both lung cancer and breast cancer commonly spread (metastasize) to bones, including those of the rib cage. This can occur with a number of different cancers as well.

Pain may be due to the presence of the tumor in bone (bone metastases) or due to fractures that result in weakened bones (pathologic fractures). In some cases, rib cage pain may be the first symptom of the cancer.

These tumors may also grow directly in to the rib cage and cause pain. Multiple myeloma is a blood-related cancer that may occur in the bone marrow of the rib cage and other bones and can also cause rib cage pain.

Other

A sickle cell crisis (bone infarct or essentially a death of bone) is an uncommon cause of rib cage pain. Rheumatoid causes such as lupus are less commonly associated with rib cage pain.

Some other potential but infrequent causes include infections in joints in the rib cage (septic arthritis), polychondritis, and sternoclavicular hyperostosis.

Non-Musculoskeletal Causes

It can sometimes be very difficult to know whether pain that is felt in the rib cage is related to rib cage itself, or underlying structures. Some potential causes of rib cage pain include the following.

Shingles

Shingles is a condition in which the chickenpox virus (which remains in the body after the initial infection) reactivates. Symptoms include fever, chills, and rash distributed on one side of the body, but pain (which can be severe) often occurs before these other symptoms and can be challenging to diagnosis.

Heart Disease

Heart disease not uncommonly causes pain that is felt as rib cage pain, and women especially, tend to have atypical symptoms such as these. The possibility of a heart attack should always be considered in a person who has any form of chest-related pain. Pericarditis, an inflammation of the membrane that lines the heart is also a potential cause.

Aorta

Enlargement of the large artery (aorta) in the chest may cause rib cage pain. Risk factors include the condition Marfan’s syndrome as well as cardiovascular disease.

Lung Conditions

Lung conditions such as pneumonia or lung cancer may cause rib cage pain. Lung cancer, in particular, may irritate nerves that lead to pain that feels like it originates in the rib cage. Pulmonary emboli, or blood clots in the legs (deep venous thromboses) that break off and travel to the lungs are a serious cause of rib cage pain.

Pleural Conditions

Inflammation of the pleura (pleurisy) or the build-up of fluid between the two layers of pleura can cause rib cage pain. This may cause pain with a deep breath and in some positions more than others.

Enlargement of the Spleen

Spleen enlargement, such as with some blood-related conditions or cancers, may cause rib cage pain. The spleen may also become enlarged (and sometimes rupture with mild trauma) with the infectious mononucleosis.

Liver Conditions

Inflammation or scarring of the liver, such as with hepatitis or cirrhosis may cause rib cage pain.

Digestive System Conditions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) often causes heartburn, but can also cause other types of pain. Peptic ulcer disease or gastritis are other potential causes.

Referred Pain From Outside of the Rib Cage

Organs outside of the rib cage may also cause pain that feels like it arises in the rib cage. Some of the organs and medical conditions to consider include:

• Gallbladder: Gallstones or cholecystitis (infection of the gallbladder)
• Pancreas: Pancreatitis or pancreatic tumors
• Kidneys and ureters: Kidney stones may sometimes cause referred pain that’s felt in the rib cage (and is often severe).

Rib Cage Pain in Pregnancy

Rib cage pain, especially upper rib cage pain, is also relatively common in pregnancy. Most of the time it’s thought that the pain is due to the positioning of the baby or related to the round ligament.

Much less commonly, and after the 20th week of gestation, pain on the right side felt under the lower ribs is sometimes a sign of preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome, a medical emergency.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing rib cage pain that does not have an obvious explanation, it’s important to make an appointment to see your doctor.

Symptoms that should alert you to call 911 and not wait include:

• Chest pressure or tightening
• Pain in the rib cage that radiates into your arm, back, or jaw
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath, especially of sudden onset
• Pain that is severe
• Sudden onset of sweating
• Lightheadedness
• New onset confusion or change in consciousness
• Coughing up blood, even if only a very small amount
• Difficulty swallowing
• Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs

Diagnosis

In order to determine the cause or causes of rib cage pain, your doctor will take a careful history and may do a number of different tests based on your answers.

History

A careful history is essential in making a diagnosis when the cause of rib cage pain in unknown. The questions noted above may help narrow down potential causes and further guide your work-up. These will include questions to not only understand the characteristics of your pain, but a review of past medical conditions, risk factors, and family history.

To narrow down potential causes, your doctor may ask a number of questions. Some of these include:

• What is the quality of your pain? Is the pain sharp or dull?
• How long have you had the pain? Did it start gradually or abruptly?
• Have you ever experienced pain like this in the past?
• Where is the location of your pain? Is it localized or diffuse? Does it affect both sides of your chest or is it isolated to the left side or right side?
• Is there anything that makes your pain better or worse? For example, pain with a deep breath (pleuritic chest pain) may suggest pleurisy or other lung conditions. Movement may worsen musculoskeletal pain.
• Is the pain present at rest or only with movement?
• Is the pain worse during the day or at night? Pain that is worse at night may suggest serious causes such as an infection, fracture, or cancer.
• Is the pain worse in one particular position (PE)?
• Can your pain be reproduced by pressing on any area of your chest?
• If you also have neck or shoulder pain, does it radiation to your arms? Do you have any weakness, tingling, or numbness of your fingers?
• What medical conditions do you have and have you had? For example, a history of early stage breast cancer in the past might raise concern over a bony recurrence in the rib cage.
• What illnesses have your family members experienced (family history)?
• Do you or have you ever smoked?
• What other symptoms have you experienced (associated symptoms)? Symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, a cough, a rash, jaundice (a yellowish discoloration of the skin), nausea, vomiting, itchy skin, etc. should be shared with your doctor.

Physical Exam

On physical examination, your doctor will likely begin with an examination of your chest (unless you have symptoms suggesting an emergency condition is present). Palpation (touching) your chest will be done to look for any localized areas of tenderness, such as over a fracture or inflammation.

With costochondritis, pain is most commonly noted with palpation to the left of the sternum in a very localized region. Swelling may be related can occur if Tietze syndrome is present or with an injury such as a fracture.

With fractures, tenderness is usually very localized. With sternalis syndrome, pain is often felt over the front of the rib cage, and palpation can cause the pain to radiate to both sides of the chest. With intercostal neuralgia, pain may be felt over the whole chest or along one rib, but can not usually be reproduced with palpation.

Range of motion tests, such as having you lean forward (flexion), stand up straight (extension), and turn to the right and left are done to see if any of these movements can reproduce the pain.

An examination of your skin will be done to look for any evidence of shingles rash, and an examination of your extremities might show signs of a rheumatoid condition such as any swelling or deformity of joints. In addition to examining your chest, your doctor will likely listen to your heart and lungs and palpate your abdomen for any tenderness.

A pleural friction rub is a breath sound that may be heard with inflammation of the lining of the lungs (the pleura). Other breath sounds might suggest an underlying pneumonia or other lung conditions.

In women, a breast exam may be done to look for any masses (that could spread to the ribs).

Labs and Tests

A number of laboratory tests may be considered depending on your history and physical exam. This may include markers for rheumatoid conditions and more. Blood chemistry including a liver panel, as well as a complete blood count may give important clues.

Imaging

Imaging tests are often needed if trauma has occurred, or if there are any signs to suggest an underlying cancer or lung disease. A regular X-ray may be helpful if something is seen, but cannot rule out either a fracture or lung cancer.

Rib detail exercises are better for visualizing the ribs, but can still easily miss rib fractures. In order to diagnose many rib fractures or stress fractures, an MRI may be needed. A bone scan is another good option both for detecting fractures and looking for potential bone metastases.

A chest computed tomography scan (CT scan) is often done if there is concern over lung cancer or pleural effusion. With cancer, a positron emission tomography (PET) scan can be good both for looking at bony abnormalities and other soft tissue spread, such as tumors in the mediastinum.

Since abdominal conditions (such as gallbladder or pancreatic conditions) may cause rib cage pain, an ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen may be done.

Procedures

Procedures may be needed to diagnosis some conditions that can cause referred pain to the rib cage.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) may be done to look for any evidence of heart damage (such as a heart attack) and to detect abnormal heart rhythms. An echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) can give further information about the heart and also detect a pericardial effusion (fluid between the membranes lining the heart) if present.

If a person has had a choking episode or has risk factors for lung cancer, a bronchoscopy may be done. In this procedure, a tube is inserted through the mouth (after sedation) and threaded down into the large airways. A camera at the end of the scope allows a physician to directly visualize the area inside the bronchi.

Endoscopy may be done to visualize the esophagus or stomach for conditions involving these organs.

Treatment

The treatment of rib cage pain will depend on the underlying cause. Sometimes this simply requires reassurance and advice to avoid activities and movements that aggravate the pain.

Rib fractures are difficult to treat, and many physicians are leaning against only conservative treatments such as wrapping the rib cage due to the potential for complications.

For musculoskeletal causes of rib cage pain, a number of options may be considered ranging from pain control, to stretching, to physical therapy, to local injections of numbing medication.

A Word From Verywell

Rib cage pain can signal a number of different musculoskeletal conditions as well as non-musculoskeletal conditions within or outside of the chest. Some of these conditions can be challenging to diagnose. Taking a careful history is often the best single “test” in finding an answer so the underlying cause can be treated.

It can be frustrating to be asked a thousand questions (that are sometimes repeated more than once), but in the case of rib cage pain, is worth the time it takes to make sure you doctor has all of the clues possible to diagnose, and subsequently treat, your pain.

90,000 Causes of pain in the solar plexus: gastritis, pancreatitis or gallstones | Healthy life | Health

We asked Larisa Tretyakova, gastroenterologist, doctor of the highest category, head of the PharmMed Clinic department, to tell us what most often hurts in the epigastric region, how to understand your own feelings and what diagnostic procedures are necessary in this case.

Almost every resident of a large city has experienced pain in the upper abdomen – right in the triangle under the ribs.Most often, epigastric pain indicates diseases of the digestive system.

Let’s first figure out which organs are located here. It is the stomach that goes into the duodenum. To the left of the stomach is the pancreas, which is responsible not only for digestion, but also for hormonal control – in particular, it produces insulin, which is necessary for cells to assimilate nutrients. The spleen is also located here, which is responsible for cleaning the blood and functioning of the immune system.To the right of the stomach, the gallbladder and liver are tightly packed. All these organs (with rare exceptions) can be a source of pain localized in the epigastric region.

The deep essence of digestion

Every high school student knows that digestion takes place in the stomach. Aggressive hydrochloric acid attacks the food entering the stomach, and it begins to break down into easily digestible components.

But not every school graduate knows that a person without a stomach can live relatively normally.Because only the first stage of digestion is carried out here. Much more important processes take place in the next “compartment” – the duodenum. The ducts of the pancreas and the common bile duct exit here.

Bile, produced by the liver, accumulates in the gallbladder, and as soon as food enters the duodenum, bile is sent there to help in digestion. An equally important role in digestion is played by the so-called “pancreatic juice” – the secret of the pancreas, which also enters the duodenum through the ducts.

After food is “processed” in the duodenum, it is sent for further digestion and absorption in the small intestine.

Illustration: Roman Borisov

Where is the failure?

As you can see from the rather schematic description of the digestive system, everything in it is very clearly connected. And if there is a failure somewhere, the whole system reacts to it.

So at the very first symptoms – pain and discomfort – a detailed examination is required.We will consider the most common diseases, the main symptom of which is epigastric pain.

Gastritis ordinary and not so

The most common disease that causes pain in the epigastric region is gastritis, that is, inflammation of the stomach lining. By the nature of the course of the disease, gastritis is acute or chronic.

The danger of chronic gastritis lies in the fact that most cases of stomach cancer develop precisely against the background of a long course of this seemingly harmless disease.

By type, superficial gastritis is distinguished, in which only the mucous membrane is inflamed, and atrophic – in this case, against the background of inflammation, the stomach glands that produce hydrochloric acid gradually die.

It is possible, unfortunately, to identify the type of gastritis and, accordingly, to determine the treatment only after a study, in the common people called “gastroscopy” – during this procedure, an endoscope is inserted into the upper parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

In fact, the study is called “esophagogastroduodenoscopy”, because during the procedure, the doctor examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum of the patient. It is very important to conduct this study in the most detailed and high quality way, since gastritis very often “coexists” with duodenitis (inflammation of the duodenum) and with the pathology of the esophagus.

Ulcer mute and screaming

The consequence of untreated gastritis and duodenitis can be a stomach or duodenal ulcer. Unlike erosion, ulcers heal with scar formation and can be accompanied by severe complications.

Contrary to popular belief, an ulcer may not signal itself with epigastric pain – it can stubbornly remain silent. As in the case of gastritis, the only chance to accurately diagnose peptic ulcer disease is to do a gastroscopy.

Pancreatitis – life-threatening

Acute epigastric pain can be a symptom of pancreatitis – inflammation of the pancreas.This organ can sluggishly signal the problem with regular, mild pain. And that means it’s time for an examination.

But if the pain in the epigastrium has become almost unbearable, plus stool disorders and vomiting develop, in some cases – an increase in temperature, then this is acute pancreatitis. And this is an indication for urgent hospitalization.

Pancreatitis occurs, as a rule, when the secretion of the pancreas (pancreatic juice) stagnates. The duct through which the secret is supposed to move into the duodenum is blocked by a stone, cyst, edema, or pus.But the juice continues to be produced and enthusiastically digests the gland itself. Therefore, in acute pancreatitis, delay in the literal sense of death is similar.

Oddly enough, pancreatitis often attacks young people who lead an active lifestyle, like to eat well, sometimes drink, and, most importantly, are subject to constant stress.

It is possible to diagnose problems with the pancreas in advance – before the development of acute pancreatitis – using a simple ultrasound and blood test. If an ultrasound scan shows any problems with the pancreas, the doctor may prescribe a computed tomography – a study that gives a layered image of the gland and allows you to examine in detail the essence of the problem.

Stones in the gallbladder

Like pancreatitis, gallstone disease is suspiciously getting younger. If earlier people thought about problems with stones after 60, now it’s time to pay attention to your gallbladder at the age of 30–35.

Regular discomfort in the epigastric region may indicate that there is a problem with the outflow of bile. The thicker the bile, the greater the likelihood of stone formation. And this is logical: first, bile forms clots, which then have a chance to transform into stones.At the stage of clots, this problem can be solved with the help of drugs – they thin the bile, and the clots disappear.

But if the clots became stones, then there is only one way out – the removal of the gallbladder. After this operation, a particularly strict diet must be followed in order to “teach” the body a new digestive system. If you carefully follow all the doctor’s prescriptions and follow a special diet throughout your life, then over time you can forget about the absence of the gallbladder.

But in order not to bring to the operation, at the first symptoms – discomfort and pain in the epigastrium – it is necessary to undergo an ultrasound scan.In order for the doctor to be able to properly examine your gallbladder, you need to prepare for an ultrasound scan: come on an empty stomach and do not eat gas-forming food 3 days before the study.

Numbness in the fingers, pain in the ribs and changes in odors – is it from the nerves or is it more serious? Talking to a Perm neurologist | 59.ru

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

In some cases, taking an anesthetic drug, massage, therapeutic exercises can help. If pain bothers you for more than 3-5 days, it is better to see a specialist for examination and receive the necessary treatment.

Who will help?

It is necessary to consult a neurologist or therapist, these specialists, if necessary, can refer you for consultation to an orthopedist, rheumatologist, gynecologist, and sometimes an endocrinologist.

Problem No. 5. Abduction of the leg in the pelvic region in the supine state

The root cause of changes

The problem may be associated with the lumbar spine, spasm of the lumbar muscles and problems in the hip joint.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

If this happens once, then you should not panic, if the problem recurs, you need to see a doctor.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

Relaxation techniques can be tried to relieve muscle tension.

Where to go?

This problem will be helped by neurologists, orthopedists, rheumatologists (depending on the cause that caused this condition).

Problem No. 6. Short-term change in habitual odors in the absence of ARVI

Root cause of changes

Smells change in the presence of problems in ENT organs or pathological changes in the brain – tumors, disorders of the brain – brain injuries. Also, the cause may be irritation of the nasal mucosa with vapors of caustic substances (whiteness, ammonia, etc.). In addition, changes in odors can be a harbinger of an epileptic seizure and the onset of a migraine attack.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

If the odors disappeared for a short time after inhalation of corrosive vapors or in the presence of nasal diseases, then you should not panic. If the odors have disappeared for no apparent reason or the impairment of smell is persistent, you should consult a specialist.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

The only thing that can be done before contacting a specialist is to treat the nasal mucosa with a solution of sea water (Aquamaris, Aqualor) or saline.

Where to go?

First, it is worth contacting an ENT doctor, who, if necessary, will refer you to another specialist. If the smells change or disappear before an attack of headaches, or after this follows a disorientation in the surrounding space, numbness of the trunk or convulsions, then immediately go to a neurologist.

Problem # 7. Is the pain on the left side of the chest a heart problem or intercostal neuralgia?

The root cause of changes

Intercostal neuralgia occurs for various reasons.Most often, the cause is herpes zoster, inflammation of the intercostal muscles (myositis), rib injury, less often problems in the thoracic spine can also be the cause. But the most dangerous cause of such pain is myocardial infarction or an attack of angina pectoris.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

Normally, chest pain does not happen without a reason.

Propensity to the problem

The problem can occur in people who are engaged in hard work, or with a sedentary lifestyle, with frequent hypothermia, in the presence of diseases of the cardiovascular system (increased blood pressure) or the presence of heart disease.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

If you are sure that this is intercostal neuralgia, and not the heart, you can take a comfortable position, relax, take an anesthetic drug, and then consult a specialist. If the pain has arisen for the first time and is of a pronounced nature, does not go away at rest – urgently call an ambulance.

Where to go?

Any pain on the left is an indication for an electrocardiogram to exclude damage to the heart muscle.If everything is good there, then to the neurologists, and in the presence of herpetic eruptions in the intercostal space – to the infectious disease specialists.

Problem No. 8. Shaking hands for no apparent reason

Root cause of change

part of the brain responsible for balance – Approx.ed. ), acquired dementia (dementia), alcoholism, the consequences of tick-borne encephalitis, peripheral nerve injury and some others. Also, this condition can be observed with pathology of the endocrine system (thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus), poisoning with toxic substances, excessive consumption of coffee, lack of vitamin B12, stress, excessive physical exertion.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

The norm can be considered if the tremor occurs during excitement (if it does not interfere with a person in his professional and personal life) or after excessive physical exertion.

Propensity to the problem

We must not forget that tremor can manifest itself in people who abuse alcohol. The tendency to essential tremor is inherited.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

Find out the reason, if possible eliminate the provoking factor, take medications prescribed by the doctor.

Where to go?

If you are concerned about this problem, see a neurologist.Sometimes the therapist can cope with the problem, if the reason is not in the pathology of the nervous system.

Problem No. 9. “Stars” or colored dots appearing in front of the eyes for no apparent reason

The root cause of changes

This may be glaucoma and other eye diseases, increased or decreased blood pressure, atherosclerosis vessels that nourish the retina of the eye and vessels of the neck, cerebrovascular accident (stroke), poisoning with certain medicinal substances, lack of trace elements (for example, iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid with the development of anemia).And also a sharp rise from a lying or sitting position.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

If this condition occurs with a sudden change in position and there are no other symptoms that bother the person, it does not require treatment. In other cases, it is necessary to look for and eliminate the cause.

Propensity to a problem

This condition is possible when the eyes are fatigued due to a long stay at the computer.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

The most important thing is to properly organize the workplace, relax your eyes – during breaks, look out the window, and not at the phone. If it doesn’t help, we run to the doctor.

Where to go?

Oculist, neurologist.

Problem No. 10. Dizziness when rising from a chair

The root cause of changes

This happens with orthostatic hypotension – redistribution of blood from the head to the lower extremities.

The degree of manifestation is within the normal range

This can be the norm and pathology. Norm – if a person sat and jumped up abruptly, tall and thin people are especially prone to this state. In diseases of the endocrine system, as well as in the elderly, this is an additional factor in falls and requires treatment. This condition can be caused by drugs.

Propensity to the problem

This problem often occurs in the elderly, as well as tall and thin people (due to the fact that the blood does not have time to quickly redistribute through the vessels).

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

The doctor recommends controlling your actions and trying not to get up abruptly. If you still feel dizzy, then take a comfortable position – sit back or lie down and lift your legs at an angle of 45 degrees.

Where to go?

If the problem occurs frequently, then your specialist is a cardiologist, if necessary and if cardiological pathology is excluded, he will refer you to a neurologist.

Problem No. 11. Severe headaches that occur for no apparent reason or with increased mental stress

The root cause of changes

There are two types of headaches – primary and secondary. Primary ones arise in the absence of diseases that can cause headaches – hypertension, tumors in the brain, infectious diseases, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, lung diseases, pathology of the temporomandibular joint and others.Primary headaches include migraine (throbbing one-sided headache), tension headache (muscle spasm when a hoop seems to squeeze the head), cluster headache (shooting pain in the eye area, lacrimation), and some others.

Propensity to the problem

Women suffer from migraines more often, cluster headaches – mainly men, tension headaches occur with physical and mental overstrain, problems in the cervical spine, after traumatic brain injuries.Certain foods, alcohol, lack of sleep, or, conversely, an excess of sleep, stress, changes in the weather can provoke headaches.

Solving the problem at the time of occurrence

Determine in what situations a headache occurs, if possible, avoid provoking factors, observe the daily regimen. If you experience headaches, try to rest, take an anesthetic drug. It must be prescribed by a doctor: it must be remembered that the abuse of painkillers in itself provokes a headache.

Where to go?

With this problem you need to go to a neurologist.

8 types of pain that signal dangerous changes in the body

Let’s try to outline the range of problems and understand the emergency measures

Photo: Ivan MAKEEV

neurologist Anna Gorenkova and cardiologist Tamara Ogieva we will try to outline the range of problems and understand the emergency measures

1.Pain in the back of the head

Most often associated with spasms of the vessels of the head. First you need to measure the pressure. With increased pain relief will help antispasmodics (spazgan, spazmalgon) and papaverine preparations (no-shpa, drotaverin).

With a decrease, you need stimulants with caffeine (citramone, cordiamine, caffetin) or adaptogens such as Eleutherococcus and Chinese magnolia vine to choose from – 30 drops of tincture). Tension pains, when the cervical muscles become numb, are best relieved by complex analgesics such as pentalgin.

2. Acute dental

Strong, twitching pain speaks of acute inflammation: pulpitis, abscess (purulent formations). You cannot apply hot to the tooth, warm the place around. So the inflammation will only intensify, an abscess may burst. You can urgently take a simple analgesic that will calm the nerve endings and drugs with lidocaine and other anesthetics (often sold in pharmacies in the form of gels). And urgently to the dentist!

3. Cervical pain

Most often caused by osteochondrosis of the cervical spine spine (and one of its main reasons is a lack of rational physical activity and an uncomfortable position at the desk).

Similar pains can also be caused by myositis – inflammation of the neck muscles – after walking without a scarf and hat in the cold spring wind. They are removed with drugs based on ibuprofen and diclofenac and ointments (efkamon, butadion, voltaren). Leaving myositis without treatment, like any inflammation, is impossible – there is a risk of complications in the form of neuritis.

4. In the center of the upper abdomen

Possible: gastritis or ulcer of the lower parts of the stomach, as well as duodenal ulcer.Night and hunger pains are typical for them.

Eliminate when taking antacids, omeprazole preparations, liquid enveloping food. And unpleasant sensations in the stomach will be removed by mezim, motilium, cerucal. From folk remedies, mint tea, decoctions of lemon balm, rose hips and chamomile are good.

5. Under the ribs on the right

Perhaps it is biliary colic or an attack of gallstone disease . The pain is sharp, begins more often in the evening, especially if you overeat. It can be reflected in the right scapula, collarbone.Put cold on the stomach (ice pack). A hot water bottle must not be categorically! You can take an antispasmodic – baralgin, no-shpu. In no case – aspirin! And be sure to be examined by a gastroenterologist. Choleretic drugs cannot be taken without a doctor’s appointment – if there are stones in the gallbladder, this can damage.

6. Under the ribs on the left

Possible causes:

Heart attack. Pain arises sharply, especially after physical exertion, cold sweat breaks through, heartbeat is disturbed, pulse jumps.Burning pain, pressing, radiates to the sternum, to the left arm, to the left shoulder blade, to the left side of the lower jaw. The patient should be laid down, raising the upper body, give two tablets of nitroglycerin under the tongue, unfasten the clothing that is restricting breathing and immediately call an ambulance. An accurate diagnosis will help to make a cardiogram.

In young people, often under the “pain in the heart”, is masked by gastritis, an ulcer of the upper stomach . With gastritis, the pain is dull, tedious, is tied to food intake – it occurs either shortly after eating, or, on the contrary, on an empty stomach, these are hunger pains caused by excessive release of hydrochloric acid.With an ulcer, the pain is persistent, aching, there is vomiting that does not bring relief.

An accurate diagnosis can be made using gastroscopy. Pain with increased acidity will be removed by antacids (phosphalugel, maalox, gastracid). With low acidity – festal, acedine-pepsin. In no case is it impossible – aspirin, analgesics, they already irritate the gastric mucosa.

7. Shingles in the upper abdomen

The most common cause is pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).Exacerbation is accompanied by vomiting, bloating, soreness to touch, lack of appetite, indigestion. The pain is usually aching, intensifying an hour or two after eating and at night. Enzyme preparations (festal, pancreatin, panzinorm) will remove the painful attack.

8. Spilled over the abdominal cavity

Possible causes:

Intestinal infection. Cramping pain, accompanied by rumbling in the abdomen, diarrhea and other “delights”.You can drink a fixing drug, say, based on loperamide. With mild food poisoning, the pain goes away rather quickly after taking sorbents, for example, activated carbon, no-shpy (drotaverine).

Those who are prone to constipation are often tormented by colitis – inflammation of the intestines caused by impaired conduction and peristalsis. With colitis, the pain is wavy, but bearable, it goes away after taking an antispasmodic.

Appendicitis. Inflammation of the appendix.Most often, pain begins in the stomach area, after a few hours it “descends” down to the right side of the lower abdomen. There is an increase in heart rate, fever, severe vomiting, often without nausea. No self-medication! Call an ambulance urgently and go to the hospital.

Chest pain ➣ symptoms and causes of pain

Chest pain often manifests itself in different forms. Sometimes it is a sharp pain in the chest, sometimes a feeling of squeezing or burning.

Chest pain can cause a wide variety of health problems.The most life-threatening causes are related to the heart or lungs. Since chest pain can indicate a serious problem, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Chest pain associated with cardiovascular problems

Symptoms:

• pressing chest pain, burning or tightness in the chest
• severe pain that lasts more than a few minutes and gets worse with physical activity
• dizziness or weakness
• shortness of breath
• cold sweat
• feeling nauseous or vomiting

Causes of heart pain in the chest

Acute cardiovascular disease .A heart attack occurs as a result of blocked blood flow, often from a blood clot, in the heart muscle.

Angina . The chest pain in this case is caused by poor blood supply to the heart. This is due to the accumulation of thick plaque on the inner walls of the arteries. These plaques narrow the arteries and limit the blood supply to the heart, especially during exercise.

Aortic dissection . This is a life-threatening condition. The inner layers of this blood vessel are separated, blood flows between the layers of the walls of the aorta.This can lead to rupture of the aorta – rapid and severe blood loss.

Pericarditis . This is an inflammation of the lining of the heart. Usually causes severe pain that gets worse when you breathe in or when you lie down.

Chest pain caused by problems with the digestive system

Symptoms

• sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• burning pain after a heavy meal
• increasing and decreasing pain for a long time
• aching pain for many hours

Chest pain can be caused by disorders of the digestive system, including:

Heartburn . This painful burning sensation behind the breastbone occurs when stomach acid is flushed from the stomach into the tube that connects the throat to the stomach (esophagus).

Esophageal obstruction can make swallowing difficult and even painful.

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Problems with the gallbladder or pancreas . Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder or pancreas can cause abdominal pain that radiates to the chest.

The classic symptoms of heartburn – a painful burning sensation behind the breastbone – can be caused by heart or stomach problems.

Chest pain associated with problems in the musculoskeletal system

Certain types of chest pain are associated with trauma and other problems affecting the structures that make up the chest, including:

Osteochondrosis . Degenerative changes in the spine can cause pressing pain in the chest, pain between the shoulder blades and in the hypochondrium.

Intercostal neuralgia. Sharp pain that worsens with any change in body position, when you breathe deeply or cough. It occurs due to compression, irritation or inflammation of the nerve with problems with the spine.

Muscle pain . Chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia can cause persistent muscle pain in the chest.

Are you familiar with the sensation of pain throughout your body? Read more…….

Injured ribs . A bruised or broken rib can cause chest pain.

Chest pain associated with lung problems

Many lung diseases can cause chest pain, including:

Pulmonary embolism . This occurs when a blood clot enters the pulmonary artery, blocking blood flow to the lung tissue.

Pleurisy. If the membrane covering your lungs becomes inflamed, it can cause chest pain that gets worse when you inhale or cough.

Pneumothorax. Chest pain associated with a collapsed lung usually begins suddenly and can last for hours and is usually associated with shortness of breath. A compressed lung occurs when air seeps into the space between the lung and the ribs.

Pulmonary hypertension . This condition occurs when you have high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood to your lungs, which can cause chest pain.

Other causes of chest pain

Chest pain caused by panic attacks. Periods of intense fear, accompanied by chest pain, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, profuse sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness and fear of death.

Shingles. This skin condition can cause one-sided pain and a band of blisters from the back to the chest wall.

If you have unexplained chest pain or suspect you are having a heart attack, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Chest pain does not always signal a heart attack. But this is what emergency room doctors will check first, because it is potentially the most immediate threat to your life. They can also check for life-threatening lung diseases such as a collapsed lung or a pulmonary artery clot (PE).

Diagnosis for chest pain

Electrocardiogram (ECG) . This test records the electrical activity of your heart through electrodes attached to your skin.Since the damaged heart muscle does not conduct electrical impulses normally, the EKG may indicate that you have had a heart attack.

Blood tests . Your doctor may order blood tests to check for elevated levels of certain proteins or enzymes normally found in the heart muscle. Damage to heart cells from a heart attack can cause these proteins or enzymes to enter your bloodstream within hours.

Radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound examination (US) of the chest. These studies will assess the condition of the chest organs, identify injuries, neoplasms, signs of internal bleeding and other pathological changes.

Based on the results of the tests done, your doctor can determine if you have a heart attack, as well as determine the cause of your chest pain and prescribe treatment.

Timoshenko Anna Sergeevna, neurologist of the International Innovation Clinic.

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90,000 Why there can be chest pain

Pain in the chest.The first thing that comes to mind is a heart attack. Of course, chest pain cannot be ignored. But it should be understood that this symptom has many causes and does not always threaten health.

Chest pain is caused by diseases of the lungs, esophagus, muscle spasm, broken ribs, or nerve damage. Some of these diseases can be life threatening, some are not harmful to health and go away on their own. If you feel chest pain and you don’t know what caused it (you didn’t fall, you didn’t be hit in the chest), the only way to find out the cause is to ask your doctor.

You can feel chest pain anywhere from the lower neck to the apex of the abdomen. Chest pains (thoracalgia) are:

• acute;
• blunt;
• stinging;
• whining;
• piercing;
• pressing.

Below are some of the most common causes of thoracalgia.

Causes of chest pain: heart problems

Although the symptom is not always associated with the heart, it is the heart that most often causes chest pain.

Ischemic heart disease (IHD). It is accompanied by blockage of the arteries that feed the heart. Less blood is supplied to the heart muscle – hypoxia and myocardial ischemia occur. This causes burning and pressing pain, which is medically called angina pectoris. Angina pectoris is a reversible circulatory disorder of the heart, not accompanied by the death of the myocardium. But this is the first signal that a heart attack is possible in the future.

Cardialgia (heart pain) with an attack of angina pectoris extends to the left scapula, shoulder, hand, jaw and back.Sudden cardialgia occurs during or after physical exertion, sex, excitement, excitement, experiences of fear. The symptom goes away with rest.

Myocardial infarction. These are irreversible disorders of the heart muscle due to the arrest of blood circulation in the coronary arteries. Myocardial cells die off, and a scar forms in their place after 1-2 weeks. With a heart attack, pain in the region of the heart is more pronounced and acute than with angina pectoris. Thoracalgia is localized to the left or center of the chest and does not go away with calmness.A heart attack is accompanied by fear of death, sweating, nausea, weakness, and disorientation.

This is a medical emergency that requires medical attention. The first sign of a heart attack is burning, pressing, or constricting chest pain that spreads to the left shoulder blade, shoulder, arm, and back. Unlike angina pectoris, thoracalgia in myocardial infarction lasts longer than 15 minutes and is not eliminated by nitroglycerin. If you find these symptoms, call an ambulance.

Myocarditis.This is inflammation of the heart muscle. In addition to chest pain, myocarditis is accompanied by fever, exhaustion, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath. With myocardial inflammation, the coronary arteries are not clogged and the heart is well supplied with blood, but chest pain with myocarditis can resemble a heart attack.

Pericarditis. This is an inflammation of the heart sac, which protects the organ from mechanical damage and displacement. The disease provokes thoracalgia, which resembles an attack of angina pectoris.However, pericarditis has some peculiarities:

• pain occurs along the neck and shoulder muscles;
• pains may be sharp or aching;
• chest discomfort worse at inspiratory height, while eating or lying on your back.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It is a hereditary disease that causes excessive thickening of the heart muscle. Sometimes cardiomyopathy interferes with cardiac blood flow, but more often it provokes thoracalgia and shortness of breath with exertion. When the heart muscle expands to its limit, heart failure occurs.The heart needs more oxygen and energy to push blood into the aorta and pump it through the greater circulation. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, in addition to thoracalgia, is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, and fatigue.

Mitral valve prolapse. Pathology is accompanied by the fact that the heart valve cannot close properly: when the muscles of the heart contract, it protrudes into the left atrium and part of the blood rushes back into the atrium.

Mitral valve prolapse is manifested by chest pain, palpitations, and dizziness.Prolapse does not appear at the initial stage of development.

Coronary artery dissection. This is a deadly disease in which a dissection occurs in the coronary artery – a tear in the vessel wall followed by hemorrhage and myocardial infarction. The dissection causes severe and severe thoracalgia that spreads to the back, abdomen, and neck.

Causes of chest pain: lung problems

Lung diseases can cause chest pain. Here are the reasons related to the pulmonary system.

Pleurisy. This is an inflammation of the pleura that covers the lungs and separates them from the chest. With pleurisy, thoracalgia occurs during a deep breath, sneezing, or coughing. The disease usually develops due to a bacterial or viral infection, pulmonary embolism, or pneumothorax. Less common causes are lung cancer, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Pneumonia or lung abscess. Diseases cause pleurisy, thoracalgia and deep chest pain. Pneumonia develops quickly and suddenly: the body temperature rises, chills and cough with purulent discharge occur.

Pulmonary embolism. A migratory blood clot can enter the lungs. This causes severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, and heart palpitations. The condition is accompanied by fever and disorientation. The likelihood of pulmonary embolism increases in patients who:

• previously suffered from deep vein thrombosis;
• underwent surgery;
• have or have had cancer.

Pneumothorax. This is a pathology in which air accumulates in the pleural cavity.It most often occurs with severe injury to the ribs, sternum or spine with internal damage to the lungs, from which air enters the chest cavity. Pneumothorax is accompanied by chest pain at inspiratory height, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and bouts of dry cough.

Pulmonary hypertension. The pathology is characterized by high pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This increases resistance – the right heart has to work hard to push the blood out. Pulmonary hypertension causes thoracalgia, which is similar in nature to an attack of angina pectoris.

Bronchial asthma. An acute attack of bronchospasm (narrowing of the bronchi) is accompanied by difficulty breathing, wheezing with a whistling, wet cough, and chest pain.

Causes of chest pain: gastrointestinal diseases

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The disease appears due to a defect in the esophageal sphincter, as a result of which food and hydrochloric acid from the stomach enters the esophagus. Acid reflux causes heartburn in the chest, sour belching and a sour taste in the mouth.The disease is triggered by obesity, smoking, spicy foods and a sedentary lifestyle. Chest pain occurs because the esophagus is closely adjacent to the heart – irritation is transmitted to the organs of the chest through the nervous system

Hypersensitive reflux syndrome (hypersensitive esophagus). Pathology is accompanied by increased sensitivity to chemicals and mechanical movement of food. The processing of nerve signals is impaired: sensitivity increases with the slightest pressure or contact with food, up to the occurrence of chest pains.

Dyskinesia of the esophagus. The disease is characterized by impaired esophageal motility. At the same time, food moves to the stomach more slowly, and pressure rises in the esophagus itself. This leads to chest pain.

Perforation of the esophagus. It is characterized by sudden sharp pain behind the sternum, which usually appears after vomiting or ingestion of a large amount of food. May rupture the esophagus.

Peptic ulcers. These are defects in the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum.They are provoked by alcohol, spicy and fatty foods, psychoemotional stresses and large doses of pain medications (ibuprofen, aspirin, analgin, diclofenac). Pain from peptic ulcers is transmitted from the stomach and intestines to the chest.

Hernia of the esophagus. This is a pathological prolapse of a part of the stomach into the lumen of the esophageal tube. In most cases, it goes without manifestations, but occasionally causes reflux symptoms, heartburn and sternum pain, which becomes worse if you lie on your back.

Pancreatitis. Inflammation of the pancreas causes pain in the upper and middle abdomen that spreads to the chest. The pain increases if you lie on your back or lean forward, with vomiting and physical exertion.

Pathology of the gallbladder. Do you feel heaviness in the right hypochondrium and lower abdomen after eating fatty foods? If so, chest pain may be due to gallbladder disease. If you have any of the above symptoms, you should consult a gastroenterologist.

Causes of chest pain: problems with bones, muscles or nerves

Thoracalgia occurs due to damage to the chest as a result of injuries, after impacts and overuse of muscles.

Rib problems. A fractured rib can cause severe thoracalgia that worsens with inhalation, coughing, and sneezing. Pain is often confined to one area and worsens when pressed. The fracture can cause arthritis in the joint between the rib and sternum. This will cause pain.

Muscle spasm. The muscles can become inflamed or damaged, and the ligaments can stretch. This reflexively contracts the muscles of the chest, and a strong and prolonged muscle contraction causes pain.

Shingles. It occurs when the body becomes infected with the herpes zoster virus. The disease causes acute thoracalgia that runs along the affected nerve. The appearance of a rash a few days after the onset of pain confirms the diagnosis

Shingles: answering frequently asked questions about the disease

shingles.

Other Potential Causes of Chest Pain

Discomfort and thoracalgia may be caused by increased anxiety, fear, or panic attack. Additional symptoms: dizziness, sweating, disorientation, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, hand tremors, tingling and numbness in certain parts of the body.

When to see a doctor for chest pain

Call an ambulance at 103 if chest pain:

• burning, sharp and pressing, lasts longer than 15 minutes and is not relieved by taking a nitroglycerin tablet;
• applies to the jaw, left limb, back, or left scapula;
• appears suddenly and causes breathing difficulties;
• causes confusion and increased sweating;
• is accompanied by a rapid drop in blood pressure;
• is accompanied by a slowdown in the heart rate;
• occurs with fever, cough with green mucus, impaired swallowing.

If you are unaware of the origin of chest pain that lasts longer than 2 weeks and does not go away after dietary changes, pain relievers and moderate physical activity, see your doctor for advice.

90,000 When to see a doctor?

Pain in the area of ​​the heart is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency help. Heart pain is not always heart pain. It is often not associated with heart problems. However, if you are experiencing chest pain and do not know about the state of your cardiovascular system, the problem can be serious and it is worth taking the time to find out the cause of the pain.

The reasons

Pain in the area of ​​the heart has many causes, they can be divided into 2 large categories – “cardiac” and “non-cardiac”.

“Heart” reasons

Myocardial infarction – a blood clot that blocks the movement of blood in the arteries of the heart can cause pressing, constricting chest pains that last more than a few minutes. The pain can radiate (radiate) to the back, neck, lower jaw, shoulders and arms (especially to the left).Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, cold sweats, and nausea.

Angina pectoris.

Over the years, fatty plaques can form in the arteries of your heart, restricting the flow of blood to your heart muscle, especially during exercise. It is the restriction of blood flow through the arteries of the heart that causes attacks of chest pain – angina pectoris. Angina is often described by people as a feeling of tightness or tightness in the chest. It usually occurs during exercise or stress.The pain usually lasts about a minute and stops at rest.

Other cardiac causes.

It can be pericarditis – inflammation of the heart shirt, while the pains are most often acute, stabbing in nature. Less commonly, the cause of pain is a dissection of the aorta, the main artery in your body. The inner layer of this artery can be separated by blood pressure and the result is sharp, sudden and severe chest pain. Aortic dissection can result from chest trauma or a complication of uncontrolled hypertension.

“Non-heart” reasons

Heartburn is the throwing of stomach contents into the esophagus, often combined with a sour taste and belching. Chest pain with heartburn is usually food-related and can last for hours. This symptom most often occurs when bending or lying down. Eases heartburn by taking antacids.

Panic attacks – manifested by attacks of gratuitous fear, combined with chest pain, heart palpitations, hyperventilation (rapid breathing) and profuse sweating, you may suffer from “panic attacks” – a kind of dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.

Tietze’s syndrome. Sometimes the cartilaginous parts of the ribs, especially the cartilage that attach to the sternum, can become inflamed. The pain in this disease can occur suddenly and be quite intense, mimicking an attack of angina pectoris. However, the location of pain may vary. In Tietze syndrome, pain may increase when pressing on the sternum or ribs near the sternum. Pain in angina pectoris and myocardial infarction does not depend on this.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine leads to the so-called vertebral cardialgia, which resembles angina pectoris.In this condition, there is intense and prolonged pain behind the sternum, in the left half of the chest. Irradiation to the hands, interscapular region may be noted. The pain increases or decreases with changes in body position, head turns, arm movements.

Diseases of the lungs.

Pneumothorax (collapsed lung), high pressure in the vessels supplying the lungs (pulmonary hypertension), and severe bronchial asthma can also present with chest pain.Muscle diseases.

Pain caused by muscle diseases, as a rule, begins to bother when turning the body or raising the arms. Chronic pain syndrome such as fibromyalgia. May cause persistent chest pain.

Rib injury and nerve entrapment. Bruises and fractures of the ribs, as well as entrapment of the nerve roots, can cause pain, sometimes very severe. With intercostal neuralgia, pain is localized along the intercostal spaces and increases with palpation.

Shingles. This infection, caused by the herpes virus and affecting the nerve endings, can cause severe chest pain. Pain can be localized in the left side of the chest or be shingles in nature. This disease can leave behind a complication – postherpetic neuralgia – the cause of prolonged pain and increased skin sensitivity.

Diseases of the gallbladder and pancreas. Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and pancreas (pancreatitis) can cause pain in the upper abdomen, radiating to the heart and more.

Since chest pain can be due to many different causes, do not self-diagnose or self-medicate or ignore severe or prolonged pain. The cause of your pain may not be as serious – but it should be checked by a specialist to determine it.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience acute, unexplained, and prolonged chest pain, possibly in combination with other symptoms (such as shortness of breath) or pain that radiates to one or both arms.Under the scapula – an urgent need to see a doctor. Perhaps it will save your life or calm you down if no serious health problems are found.

What to do with pain in the heart?

1. Take it easy. At rest, the heart consumes less oxygen, so if there is damage to the heart muscle, there will be less chance of serious complications.

2. Stop the provocative load – stop, if you are walking, sit down.If you are in a noisy stuffy room, go outside if the exit is not far away and you do not need to go up / down stairs.

3. Take any sedative at hand: phenazepam, corvalol, motherwort, valerian, etc.

4. Think about the nature of the pain. If the pain is stitching, aggravated by a deep breath or twisting of the trunk, as well as by pressing with a finger, then most likely the pain is not of cardiac origin. If the pain is dull, compressing, localized behind the sternum, and not in the armpit, then there is a likelihood of developing an attack of angina pectoris.

5. If there are signs of an angina attack – dull, squeezing, pressing pain behind the breastbone, then it is better to call an ambulance. Waiting for an attack of angina pectoris is an unacceptable negligence to your health, which can lead to the development of myocardial infarction, especially if you have never experienced chest pains before.

6. If there is a suspicion of the development of an attack of angina pectoris, it is necessary:

• immediately stop work, try to sit down or lie down;
• unfasten the collar, unfasten the belt;
• put a nitroglycerin tablet or a validol tablet under the tongue, take 30 drops of valocordin or corvalol;
• If after that the pain persists for 5 minutes, put a second nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue, ask your family or colleagues to call an ambulance immediately.
• When calling an ambulance, tell the operator the most detailed description of the pain: the nature, location (place), where it is given, the duration of the attack, whether the patient has heart disease, what drugs he is taking.

7. If there is no suspicion of angina pectoris – pain in the chest is not intense, stitching, intensified with a deep breath, turning, bending of the body, given to the back, then take an anesthetic and call a doctor at home.

Pain in the region of the heart.Pay attention

Pain in the area of ​​the heart is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency help. So, every year, several million people seek emergency medical help with this symptom.

Heart pain is not always heart pain. It is often not associated with heart problems. However, if you are experiencing chest pain and do not know about the state of your cardiovascular system, the problem can be serious and it is worth taking the time to find out the cause of the pain.

The reasons

Pain in the region of the heart can be very different. It cannot always be described. The pain can be felt as a slight burning sensation or as a violent blow. Since you cannot always determine the cause of the pain yourself, there is no need to waste time on self-medication, especially if you belong to the so-called “risk group” of heart disease.

Pain in the region of the heart has many causes, including those requiring close attention.The causes of pain can be divided into 2 large categories – “cardiac” and “non-cardiac”.

“Heart” reasons

(Infarction, a blood clot that blocks the movement of blood in the arteries of the heart, can cause pressing, constricting chest pains lasting more than a few minutes. The pain can radiate (radiate) to the back, neck, lower jaw, shoulders and arms (especially the left). Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, cold sweats, and nausea.

(Angina pectoris Over the years, fatty plaques can form in the arteries of your heart, restricting blood flow to your heart muscle, especially during exercise.It is the restriction of blood flow to the arteries of the heart that causes attacks of chest pain – angina pectoris. Angina is often described by people as a feeling of pressure or compression in the chest. It usually occurs during exercise or stress. The pain usually lasts about a minute and stops at rest.

Other cardiac causes. Other causes that can present with chest pain include inflammation of the heart girdle (pericarditis), most often due to a viral infection.Pericarditis pain is most often acute, stabbing. Fever and malaise may also occur. Less commonly, the cause of pain can be a dissection of the aorta, the main artery in your body. The inner layer of this artery can be detached under the pressure of the blood and the result is sharp, sudden and severe chest pain. Aortic dissection can result from chest trauma or a complication of uncontrolled hypertension.

“Non-heart” reasons

Heartburn.Acidic stomach acid from the stomach into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach) can cause heartburn, an excruciating burning sensation in the chest. It is often combined with a sour taste and belching. Chest pain with heartburn is usually food-related and can last for hours. This symptom most often occurs when bending or lying down. Eases heartburn by taking antacids.

Panic attacks. If you are experiencing bouts of unreasonable fear, combined with chest pain, rapid heartbeat, hyperventilation (rapid breathing) and profuse sweating, you may suffer from “panic attacks” – a kind of dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.Pleurisy. Acute, limited chest pain that worsens with inhalation or coughing may be a sign of pleurisy. The pain is caused by inflammation of the membrane that lines the inside of the chest cavity and covers the lungs. Pleurisy can occur with various diseases, but most often – with pneumonia.

Tietze’s syndrome. Under certain conditions, the cartilaginous parts of the ribs, especially the cartilage that attach to the sternum, can become inflamed. The pain in this disease can occur suddenly and be quite intense, mimicking an attack of angina pectoris.However, the location of pain may vary. In Tietze syndrome, pain may worsen when pressing on the sternum or ribs near the sternum. Pain in angina pectoris and myocardial infarction does not depend on this.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine leads to the so-called vertebral cardialgia, which resembles angina pectoris. In this condition, there is intense and prolonged pain behind the sternum, in the left half of the chest. Irradiation to the arms, interscapular region may be noted.The pain increases or decreases with changes in body position, head turns, arm movements. The diagnosis can be confirmed with an MRI scan of the spine.

Pulmonary embolism. This type of embolism develops when a blood clot enters the pulmonary artery, blocking blood flow to the heart. Symptoms of this life-threatening condition may include sudden, sharp chest pain that occurs or worsens with deep breathing or coughing. Other symptoms are shortness of breath, palpitations, anxiety, loss of consciousness.

Other lung diseases. Pneumothorax (collapsed lung), high pressure in the vessels supplying the lungs (pulmonary hypertension), and severe bronchial asthma can also present with chest pain. Muscle diseases. Pain caused by muscle diseases, as a rule, begins to bother when turning the body or raising the arms. Chronic pain syndrome such as fibromyalgia. May cause persistent chest pain.

Rib injury and nerve entrapment.Bruises and fractures of the ribs, as well as entrapment of the nerve roots, can cause pain, sometimes very severe. With intercostal neuralgia, pain is localized along the intercostal spaces and increases with palpation.

Diseases of the esophagus. Some diseases of the esophagus can cause swallowing problems and therefore chest discomfort. Esophageal spasm can cause chest pain. In patients with this disorder, the muscles that normally propel food through the esophagus do not work in a coordinated manner.Because esophageal spasm can resolve after taking nitroglycerin – just like angina – diagnostic errors are common. Another swallowing disorder known as achalasia can also cause chest pain. In this case, the valve in the lower third of the esophagus does not open properly and does not allow food to enter the stomach. It stays in the esophagus, causing discomfort, pain, and heartburn.

Shingles. This infection, caused by the herpes virus and affecting the nerve endings, can cause severe chest pain.Pain can be localized in the left side of the chest or be shingles in nature. This disease can leave behind a complication – postherpetic neuralgia – the cause of prolonged pain and increased skin sensitivity.

Diseases of the gallbladder and pancreas. Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and pancreas (pancreatitis) can cause pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the heart. Since chest pain can result from many different causes, do not self-diagnose or self-medicate or ignore severe and prolonged pain.The cause of your pain may not be so serious – but in order to establish it, you need to contact a specialist.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience acute, unexplained, and prolonged chest pain, possibly in combination with other symptoms (such as shortness of breath) or pain that radiates to one or both arms. Under the scapula, an urgent need to see a doctor. Perhaps it will save your life or calm you down if no serious health problems are found.

Diagnostics

Pain in the region of the heart does not always signal heart disease. Methods that can help determine the cause of pain include: (Electrocardiography (ECG)) This method helps the doctor diagnose heart disease. It records the electrical activity of the heart through electrodes placed on the skin. Cardiac impulses are recorded as “teeth”. Since the damaged heart muscle cannot conduct electrical impulses normally, the ECG may indicate that the patient has heart disease.

Blood tests. Your doctor may order tests to check for elevated levels of certain enzymes. Damage to heart cells during myocardial infarction leads to the release of these enzymes and their entry into the bloodstream. Myocardial scintigraphy. This method helps doctors determine the “heart cause” of pain, for example. Narrowing of the coronary arteries. A small amount of a radioactive substance (such as thallium) is injected into the bloodstream. Special cameras capture the radioactive material and track its passage through the heart and lungs.

(Angiography) This test helps you see the arteries of the heart and the obstructions in them. Liquid contrast medium is injected into the arteries of the heart through a special catheter – a long, hollow tube that is passed to the heart through an artery (usually the femoral artery). With the help of X-rays, the arteries become visible. (Echocardiography (ECHO KG)) This method uses ultrasound waves to produce an image of a beating heart.

Electron beam tomography (CRT).This unique method allows detecting the early stages of coronary heart disease by detecting microcalcifications in the wall of the coronary arteries, even before the onset of symptoms.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine will help determine the cause of chest pain if it is caused by a pinched nerve root or herniated discs.