What is pancreatitis? What causes it? What are the symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis? How is pancreatitis diagnosed and treated? Get answers to these questions and more in our in-depth guide.

Understanding Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas, a vital organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones. This condition can manifest in two forms: acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis.

Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden and severe inflammatory response within the pancreas, often caused by the release of activated digestive enzymes. This can lead to damage and swelling of the pancreatic tissue, as well as surrounding organs. Acute pancreatitis is generally brief in duration and reversible, but can also be life-threatening in severe cases.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, involves persistent or recurring inflammation that results in irreversible damage to the pancreatic structure and function. This can lead to a range of complications, including impaired digestive and endocrine functions.

Causes of Pancreatitis

The primary causes of pancreatitis include heavy alcohol consumption, gallstones, inherited abnormalities of the pancreas, metabolic disorders, and certain medications. In rare cases, pancreatitis can also be triggered by trauma, surgery, or viral infections.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

The most common symptom of acute pancreatitis is severe abdominal pain, often radiating towards the back. Patients may also experience bloating, fever, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Chronic pancreatitis can present with or without abdominal pain, and may also cause steatorrhea (excessive fat in the stool) and weight loss.

Diagnosing Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic procedures. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Treatment of Pancreatitis

The primary treatment for pancreatitis involves addressing the underlying cause, managing the inflammatory response, and supporting the patient’s overall health. This may include fasting, medications, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Physical therapy may also play a role in the management of chronic pancreatitis.

How is pancreatitis treated?

The treatment for pancreatitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause, managing the inflammatory response, and supporting the patient’s overall health. This may include:
– Fasting or limited diet to allow the pancreas to rest
– Medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and support digestive function
– Intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement
– In severe cases, surgical intervention to remove damaged tissue or address the underlying cause
– Physical therapy to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life in chronic pancreatitis

What are the risk factors for pancreatitis?

The primary risk factors for pancreatitis include:
– Heavy alcohol consumption
– Gallstones
– Inherited abnormalities of the pancreas
– Metabolic disorders
– Certain medications
– Trauma or surgery to the pancreas region
– Viral infections

How do I know if I have pancreatitis?

The most common symptoms of pancreatitis include:
– Severe abdominal pain, often radiating to the back
– Nausea and vomiting
– Bloating
– Fever
– Sweating
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests, imaging studies, or other diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of pancreatitis.

Can pancreatitis be prevented?

While it’s not always possible to prevent pancreatitis, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:
– Limit alcohol consumption
– Maintain a healthy weight
– Avoid medications that may trigger pancreatitis
– Seek prompt medical attention for any abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms

What is the difference between acute and chronic pancreatitis?

The main differences between acute and chronic pancreatitis are:
– Acute pancreatitis is a sudden and severe inflammatory response, while chronic pancreatitis involves persistent or recurring inflammation.
– Acute pancreatitis is generally brief in duration and reversible, while chronic pancreatitis leads to irreversible damage to the pancreatic structure and function.
– Acute pancreatitis can be life-threatening in severe cases, while chronic pancreatitis can cause a range of long-term complications, such as impaired digestive and endocrine functions.

How common is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is one of the less common diseases of the digestive system, but it still affects a significant number of people:
– Acute pancreatitis accounts for about 275,000 hospital admissions annually in the United States.
– Chronic pancreatitis has an annual incidence rate of 5 to 12 per 100,000 people, with a prevalence of 50 per 100,000 people.
– The most common age group affected by chronic pancreatitis is 30 to 40 years old, and it occurs more frequently in men than women.

What are the possible complications of pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis can lead to a range of complications, depending on the severity and type of the condition:
– Acute pancreatitis can cause damage to the pancreas, as well as surrounding organs, and can lead to systemic inflammation and complications.
– Chronic pancreatitis can result in permanent damage to the pancreatic structure and function, leading to impaired digestive and endocrine functions, as well as other long-term health issues.
– Both acute and chronic pancreatitis can increase the risk of developing complications such as pancreatic duct strictures, pancreatic pseudocysts, and pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatitis is a complex and potentially serious condition that requires prompt and appropriate medical management. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for both acute and chronic pancreatitis, you can take steps to reduce your risk and seek timely medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Pancreatitis – Physiopedia

Original Editors – Amy Dean from Bellarmine University’s Pathophysiology of Complex Patient Problems project. Top Contributors – Amy Dean, Admin, Lucinda hampton, George Prudden, WikiSysop, Kim Jackson, Scott Buxton, 127.0.0.1, Elaine Lonnemann, Dave Pariser and Wendy Walker  

Contents

• 1 Introduction
• 2 Acute Pancreatitis
• 3 Chronic Pancreatitis
• 4 Etiology
• 5 Epidemiolgy
• 6 Characteristics/Clinical Presentation
• 7 Associated Co-morbidities
• 8 Diagnosis
• 9 Treatment
• 10 Physical Therapy Management
• 11 Differential Diagnosis
  • 11.1 Acute Pancreatitis
  • 11.2 Chronic Pancreatitis
• 12 References

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can either be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (ongoing). The pancreas is a gland that secretes both digestive enzymes and important hormones. Heavy alcohol consumption is one of the most common causes of chronic pancreatitis, followed by gallstones.

• Pancreatitis is one of the least common diseases of the digestive system. Treatment options include abstaining from alcohol, fasting until the inflammation subsides, medication and surgery^[1].
• Pancreatitis is a potentially serious disorder characterized by inflammation of the pancreas that may cause autodigestion of the organ by its own enzymes. This disease has two manifestations: acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis^[2]
• Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute response to injury of the pancreas. Chronic pancreatitis (CP) can result in permanent damage to the structure and endocrine and exocrine functions of the pancreas.^[3]

Image 1: Anatomy of the pancreas and its related organs, the gall bladder and duodenum

Acute pancreatitis is the result of an inflammatory process involving the pancreas caused by the release of activated pancreatic enzymes.

Image 2: 3D animation Acute pancreatitis

In addition to the pancreas, this disorder can also affect surrounding organs, as well as cause a systemic reaction. This form of pancreatitis is generally brief in duration, milder in symptom presentation, and reversible. However, while this form of the disease resolves both clinically and histologically, approximately 15% of patients with acute pancreatitis will develop chronic pancreatitis.^[2][4]
Acute pancreatitis may present as mild or severe. Milder forms of acute pancreatitis involve only the interstitium of the pancreas, which accounts for 80% of all cases, and has a temperate presentation with fewer complications. However, severe forms involve necrosis of the pancreatic tissue, which occurs in 20% of cases, and results in increased complications and mortality.^[2][4]

Chronic pancreatitis develops from chronic inflammation of the pancreas that results in irreversible and progressive histologic changes. This includes fibrosis and ductal strictures, which destroy the pancreas directly, as well as decreased endocrine and exocrine functions, which can negatively affect other body systems. Unlike acute pancreatitis, this form of the disease is characterized by recurrent or persistent symptoms.^[2][4]

Around half of all people with acute pancreatitis have been heavy drinkers, which makes alcohol consumption one of the most common causes. Gallstones cause most of the remaining cases. In rare cases, pancreatitis can be caused by:

• trauma or surgery to the pancreas region
• inherited abnormalities of the pancreas
• inherited disorders of metabolism
• viruses (particularly mumps)
• medication (including some diuretics), which can also trigger inflammation^[1].

Acute pancreatitis accounts for about 275,000 hospital admissions annually.

• Eighty percent of patients admitted with pancreatitis usually have mild disease and can be discharged within a few days.
• Overall mortality of acute pancreatitis is approximately 2%. 
• The relapse rate of acute pancreatitis is between 0.6% to 5.6%, and this depends on the etiology of pancreatitis. The relapse rate is highest when pancreatitis is due to alcohol use.

Chronic pancreatitis has an annual incidence rate of 5 to 12 per 100,000 people.

• The prevalence of chronic pancreatitis is 50 per 100,000 people.
• The most common age group is 30 to 40 years, and it occurs more in men than women^[3].

Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Abdominal pain is the most common presenting complaint of AP and can occur with nausea and vomiting. Chronic pancreatitis can present with or without abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. Patients with chronic pancreatitis can present with steatorrhea and weight loss^[3].

1.Common symptoms of an acute pancreatitis include: severe abdominal pain, often spreading through into the back; bloating; fever; sweating; nausea; vomiting; collapse.

2. Some people with chronic pancreatitis suffer recurrent or even constant abdominal pain, which may be severe. Other symptoms include steady weight loss, caused by the body’s inability to properly digest and absorb food. If much of the pancreas has been damaged, loss of insulin production can cause diabetes. Chronic pancreatitis can contribute to the development of pancreatic cancer.^[3]

Acute Pancreatitis

• Alcoholism
• 15% of patients with acute pancreatitis develop chronic pancreatitis
• 5-7% mortality rate for milder forms with inflammation confined to the pancreas
• 10-50% for severe forms with necrosis and hemorrhage of the gland and a systemic inflammatory response
• Infection of necrotic pancreatic tissue may occur after 5-7 days 100% mortality for pancreatic infection without extensive surgical debridement or drainage of the infected area
• Patients with peripancreatic inflammation or one area of fluid collection have a 10 to 15% chance of abscess formation
• Patients with two or more areas of fluid collection have a 60% incidence of abscess formation
• Diabetes mellitus (increased risk in alcoholic pancreatitis)
• Recurrent episodes (increased risk in alcoholic pancreatitis)^[4][2]

Chronic Pancreatitis

• Alcoholism
• Cystic fibrosis
• Diabetes mellitus develops in 20-30% of patients within 10-15 years of onset
• Pancreatic cancer develops in 3% to 4% of patients
• Chronic disability
• 70% 10-year survival rate
• 45% 20-year survival rate
• 60% mortality rate for patients with alcohol-related chronic pancreatitis who do not cease alcohol intake^[2]

Pancreatitis is generally diagnosed quickly, by examination of the abdomen, and confirmed using a series of medical tests including:

• General tests – such as blood tests, physical examination and x-rays.
• Ultrasound – sound waves form a picture that detects the presence of gallstones.
• CT scan – a specialised x-ray takes three-dimensional pictures of the pancreas.
• MRI scan – this uses a strong magnetic field rather than radiation to take pictures of the abdomen. A special form of MRI called MRCP can also be used to get images of the ducts of the pancreas and help determine the cause of pancreatitis and the extent of damage^[1].

Treatment depends on the causes and severity of the condition.

Treatment for acute pancreatitis may include:

• hospital care – in all cases of acute pancreatitis
• intensive care in hospital – in cases of severe acute pancreatitis
• fasting and intravenous fluids – until the inflammation settles down
• pain relief – adequate pain relief is essential and is often given into the vein (intravenously). With appropriate pain relief, a person with pancreatitis is able to draw deep breaths, which helps to avoid lung complications such as pneumonia
• endoscopy – a thin tube is inserted through your oesophagus to allow the doctor to see your pancreas. This device is used to inject dye into the bile ducts and pancreas. Gallstones can be seen and removed directly
• surgery – if gallstones are present, removing the gallbladder will help prevent further attacks. In rare cases, surgery is needed to remove damaged or dead areas of the pancreas
• lifestyle change – not drinking alcohol.

Treatment for chronic pancreatitis may include:

• lowering fat intake
• supplementing digestion by taking pancreatic enzyme tablets with food
• cutting out alcohol
• insulin injections, if the endocrine function of the pancreas is compromised
• analgesics (pain-relieving medication)^[1]

Physical Therapy Management[edit | edit source]

Acute Pancreatitis

Patients with acute pancreatitis may seek physical therapy treatment with a chief complaint of back pain.

• Back pain is common in patients with pancreatitis, as the inflammation and scarring associated with this disease can lead to decreased spinal extension, particularly in the thoracolumbar junction. This decrease in motion is difficult to treat even with patient compliance and resolution of inflammation due to the depth of the scarring. This tissue is often difficult to penetrate with mobilization techniques and, therefore, continues to decrease motion. Despite this, pain may be relieved through the use of heat to decrease muscular tension, relaxation techniques, and specific positioning techniques, including leaning forward, sitting up, or lying on the left side in the fetal position.
• It is important to note that a patient may present to physical therapy prior to a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis with back pain. While acute pancreatitis is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, pain after eating, anorexia, and unexplained weight loss, the patient may not recognize the importance or necessity of reporting what they may believe are unrelated symptoms. Therefore physical therapists must thoroughly question patients about all body systems and warning signs.
• It is also important to know that pancreatitis is frequently associated with diabetes mellitus.  Over 23 million Americans are currently living with diabetes, many of which will seek physical therapy services.  Because of this it is important to be aware of the signs of symptoms of pancreatitis, as patients with diabetes are at an increased risk for this condition.^[5]
• Patients with acute pancreatitis my also need physical therapy services if acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) develops as a complication. Assisted respiration and pulmonary care are critical interventions for these patients.
• For patients who are receiving acute care and are restricted from eating or drinking in order to let the pancreas rest, even ice chips can stimulate enzymes and increase pain. Therefore, physical therapists must be careful to follow all medical orders and not adhere to patient requests until approved by the nursing or medical staff.
• Hospitalized patients with acute pancreatitis must also be monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding, including bruising. ^[2]

Chronic Pancreatitis

• Similar to acute pancreatitis, patients with chronic pancreatitis may present to physical therapy with complaints of pain in the upper thoracic spine or at the thoracolumbar junction, while those with alcohol-related chronic pancreatitis may have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Because patients may complain of these seemingly musculoskeletal problems, it is imperative that physical therapists receive a complete history perform a thorough examination to screen for this disease. If this visceral problem is not determined upon initial evaluation, failure to improve with therapeutic intervention necessitates referral.
• Patients with known pancreatitis or post-pancreatectomy may need physical therapy services such as monitoring vital signs and/or blood glucose levels depending on what complications exist.
• Physical therapists should also educate these patients about the effects of malabsorption and associated osteoporosis that they may experience. ^[2]

Acute Pancreatitis[edit | edit source]

Disorders presenting with symptoms similar to those of acute pancreatitis includeperforated gastric or duodenal ulcer, mesenteric infarction, medications, strangulating intestinal obstruction, dissecting aneurysm, biliary colic, appendicitis, diverticulitis, inferior wall myocardial infarction, tubo-ovarian abscess, renal failure, salivary gland disease, hematoma of the abdominal muscles or spleen, cholecystitis, vascular occlusions, pneumonia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercalcemia, infection, post-traumatic injury, pregnancy, and diabetic ketoacidosis.^[4][6][7][8]

Chronic Pancreatitis[edit | edit source]

Patients who do not present with a typical history of alcohol abuse and frequent episodes of acute pancreatitis, pancreatic malignancy must be ruled out as the cause of pain. In addition, chronic pancreatitis may initially be confused with acute pancreatitis because the symptoms are similar, gallstones, and neoplastic or inflammatory masses. ^[4][6]

1. ↑ ^1.01.11.21.3 better health Pancreatitis Available:https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/pancreatitis (accessed 3.9.2021)
2. ↑ ^{2.02.12.22.32.42.52.62.7} Goodman CC, Fuller KS. Pathology: Implications for the Physical Therapist. 3rd ed. Saint Louis, MO: Saunders; 2009.
3. ↑ ^3.03.13.23.3 Mohy-ud-din N, Morrissey S. Pancreatitis.2019 Available: https://www.statpearls.com/articlelibrary/viewarticle/26577/(accessed 3.9.2021)
4. ↑ ^{4.04.14.24.34.44.5} Beers MH, et. al. eds. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy. 18th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck Research Laboratories; 2006.
5. ↑ American Diabetes Association. http://www.diabetes.org/ (accessed 11 April 2010).
6. ↑ ^6.06.1 Cleveland Clinic: Center for Continuing Education. Chronic Pancreatitis. http://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/gastroenterology/chronic-pancreatitis/ (accessed 21 March 2010).
7. ↑ Carroll J, Herrick B, Gipson T. Acute Pancreatitis: Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2008 Mar 1;77(5):594. http://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/0515/p1513.html (accessed 21 March 2010).
8. ↑ The Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. Acute Pancreatitis. http://www.aic.cuhk.edu.hk/web8/acute_pancreatitis.htm (accessed 21 March 2010).

Slipping rib syndrome: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Slipping rib syndrome refers to pain in your lower chest or upper abdomen which may be present when your lower ribs move a little more than normal.

Your ribs are the bones in your chest that wrap around your upper body. They connect your breastbone to your spine.

This syndrome usually occurs in 8th to 10th ribs (also known are false ribs) at the lower part of your rib cage. These ribs are not connected to the chest bone (sternum). Fibrous tissue (ligaments), connect these ribs to each other to help keep them stable. The relative weakness in the ligaments can allow the ribs to move a little more than normal and cause pain.

The condition can occur as a result of:

• Injury to the chest while playing contact sports such as football, ice hockey, wrestling, and rugby
• A fall or direct trauma to your chest
• Rapid twisting, pushing, or lifting motions, such as throwing a ball or swimming

When the ribs shift, they press on the surrounding muscles, nerves, and other tissues. This causes pain and inflammation in the area.

Slipping rib syndrome can occur at any age, but it is more common in middle-aged adults. Females may be more affected than males.

The condition usually occurs on one side. Rarely, it may occur on both sides. Symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen. The pain may come and go and get better with time.
• A popping, clicking, or slipping sensation.
• Pain when applying pressure to the affected area.
• Coughing, laughing, lifting, twisting, and bending may make the pain worse.

The symptoms of slipping rib syndrome are similar to other medical conditions. This makes the condition difficult to diagnose.

Your health care provider will take your medical history and ask about your symptoms. You will be asked questions such as:

• How did the pain start? Was there an injury?
• What makes your pain worse?
• Does anything help relieve the pain?

Your provider will perform a physical exam. The hooking maneuver test may be done to confirm the diagnosis. In this test:

• You will be asked to lie on your back.
• Your provider will hook their fingers under the lower ribs and pull them outward.
• Pain and a clicking sensation confirms the condition.

On the basis of your exam, an x-ray, ultrasound, MRI or blood tests may be done to rule out other conditions.

The pain usually goes away in few weeks.

Treatment focuses on relieving the pain. If the pain is mild, you can use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) for pain relief. You can buy these pain medicines at the store.

• Talk with your provider before using these medicines if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, or have had stomach ulcers or internal bleeding in the past.
• Take the dose as advised by the provider. DO NOT take more than the amount recommended on the bottle. Carefully read the warnings on the label before taking any medicine.

Your provider may also prescribe pain medicines to relieve pain.

You may be asked to:

• Apply heat or ice at the site of pain
• Avoid activities that makes the pain worse, such as heavy lifting, twisting, pushing, and pulling
• Wear a chest binder to stabilize the ribs
• Consult a physical therapist

For severe pain, your provider may give you a corticosteroid injection at the site of pain.

If the pain persists, surgery may be done to remove the cartilage and lower ribs, although it is not a commonly performed procedure.

The pain often goes away completely over time, although the pain may become chronic. Injection or surgery may be required in some cases.

Complications may include:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Injury during an injection may cause pneumothorax.

There are usually no long-term complications.

You should contact your provider right away if you have:

• An injury to your chest
• Pain in your lower chest or upper abdomen
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain during daily activities

Call 911 or the local emergency number if:

• You have sudden crushing, squeezing, tightening, or pressure in your chest.
• Pain spreads (radiates) to your jaw, left arm, or between your shoulder blades.
• You have nausea, dizziness, sweating, a racing heart, or shortness of breath.

Interchondral subluxation; Clicking rib syndrome; Slipping-rib-cartilage syndrome; Painful rib syndrome; Twelfth rib syndrome; Displaced ribs; Rib-tip syndrome; Rib subluxation; Chest pain-slipping rib

• Ribs and lung anatomy

Cupit GL, Dixit S, Chang CJ. Thorax and abdominal injuries. In: Madden CC, Putukian M, McCarty EC, Young CC, eds. Netter’s Sports Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 52.

Kolinski JM. Chest pain. In: Kliegman RM, Lye PS, Bordini BJ, Toth H, Basel D, eds. Nelson Pediatric Symptom-Based Diagnosis. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 8.

McMahon, LE. Slipping rib syndrome: a review of evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Semin Pediatr Surg. 2018;27(3):183-188. PMID: 30078490 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30078490/.

Waldmann SD. Slipping rib syndrome. In: Waldmann SD, ed. Atlas of Uncommon Pain Syndromes. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 72.

Updated by: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Heart hurts, what to do?

Contents:

Pain and tingling in the chest are very disturbing in their appearance. Most often, heart pain occurs in the elderly, but can occur at any age. There is no need to panic ahead of time. The causes of cardiac discomfort can be physiological and will go away on their own. But if the heart stabs regularly, the pain intensifies and it is difficult to breathe, you should consult a doctor to rule out serious diseases.

Causes of pain in the region of the heart

Stress . Characterized by sudden attacks of pain, a feeling that the heart has stopped and sometimes the palms sweat. Often the symptoms disappear with the exclusion of stress factors, overwork and excitement.

Intercostal neuralgia . When nerves are damaged between the ribs of a person, a feeling of heart pain occurs, especially with left-sided neuralgia. Such pains arise sharply and increase when probing the torso and ribs. Also, sudden movements, sneezing and coughing increase tingling in the heart with intercostal neuralgia. Can prick the heart on inspiration. Their protracted nature helps to identify such pain: it can stab in the heart for several days.

Nervous system disorders . A common cause of periodic tingling in the heart. Pain in the heart of a neuralgic nature can be accompanied by depressed states, apathy or aggression.

Hormonal disruptions and changes . Endocrine changes and disorders in some cases are manifested by pain in the heart. In this case, the pain can be determined on the left, and then move to the right. The symptomatology resembles angina pectoris, the latter is ultimately not confirmed by the analyzes and gives a reason to turn to an endocrinologist.

Digestive disorders . Gastritis and ulcers provoke pain in the upper chest and create a feeling of pain in the heart. In this case, the pain can be sharp and throbbing. Pressing cardio pains appear with increased gas formation, when the digestive organs, overflowing with gases, expand and put pressure on the heart.

Thoracic osteochondrosis . The disease is manifested by painful sensations in the spine in the region of the sternum, which patients may mistakenly recognize as pain in the heart.

Heart neurosis . A typical cause of pain in the heart of a psychosomatic nature. Patients may experience severe chest pain, palpitations, and frequent irritability.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) . In the second degree or severe hypertension, patients complain, including prolonged, dull pain in the heart. They are aggravated by physical exertion and excitement.

Cardiac arrhythmias . Arrhythmia is manifested by various types of pain in the heart: it can stab, pull or whine behind the sternum. The patient may complain that the heart “jumps” or vice versa “freezes”. The general condition of the patient may worsen.

Inflammatory diseases of the heart . Myocarditis or pericarditis is manifested by aching and paroxysmal pain in the heart, shortness of breath, heart rhythm disturbances and fever.

Angina . The main symptom is attacks of acute pain in the heart. Most often, during an attack, a person “grabs his heart” and complains that he is stabbing hard in the heart. The pain can spread to the entire left arm from the shoulder and through the shoulder blade.

Heart attack . As with angina pectoris, burning and pressing pains can radiate to the arm and even the jaw. There may be cold sweat, shortness of breath, blanching. Attention! The condition requires immediate medical attention.

Only a doctor can determine why a stabbing in the heart. Since the causes can be conditionally divided into those related to cardiovascular diseases and not related, it is necessary to understand the exact sources of pain in order to select the appropriate treatment.

How to understand that the heart hurts

The lesions in the heart are indicated by:

– the nature of the pain: pressing or burning

– the pain disappears if the patient calms down or uses certain drugs (nitroglycerin)

– the pain is given to the arm

– aggravated after physical or strong emotional stress

What to do if your heart hurts

The best solution is to see a doctor. At the appointment, carefully describe the nature (burning, pulling) and localization of pain (on the right, left or in the center of the chest), the circumstances under which it appeared: stress, stress or calmness. If the pain is severe, sharp and prolonged, accompanied by shortness of breath, blackout in the eyes, passing into the arm and other alarming signs, call an ambulance.

What can you do before the doctor arrives if your heart hurts:

– open the window, you need fresh air

— do not lie down, it may make breathing difficult

– try to calm down

– drink warm tea

– you can take nitroglycerin, Validol or aspirin if there are no contraindications

Which doctor to contact if your heart hurts

First of all, you should make an appointment with a cardiologist. The doctor will prescribe the necessary examinations to determine the cause of pain in the sternum. Be prepared to take a blood and urine test, echocardiography, electrocardiogram. Most likely, one of the possible cardiovascular diseases will be confirmed, the symptom of which is pain in the heart

Otherwise, the cardiologist will give a referral to other specialists who will help determine the causes of a non-cardiological spectrum.

How to prevent heart pain?

No one is safe from pain in the heart, they can occur due to various reasons. However, the most dangerous are diseases of the cardiovascular nature. To avoid negative consequences and danger to health and life, preventive measures should be taken:

2. Stick to a normal daily routine: you need a good sleep, work breaks, regular time to get up and go to bed.

3. Control your cholesterol, which is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. With elevated cholesterol levels, take measures to normalize it. The probiotic complex Lactoflorene® can help with this. CHOLESTEROL – cholesterol under control. With regular intake of the course Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL, there is a decrease in total cholesterol by 17%, and bad cholesterol – by 24%. Optimally selected composition, enhanced with probiotic cultures of Bifidobacterium longum BB536®. This is the most studied strain, which, in addition to restoring the normal functioning of the intestinal microflora, limits the absorption of cholesterol derivatives secreted through bile. One of the main active ingredients – monacolin K or natural statin, obtained from red fermented rice acts as a blocker of cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing its production and distribution in the body. Amides of nicotinic acid are a water-soluble form of vitamin B and are involved in metabolic processes. As part of Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL, nicotinamide helps to reduce the concentration of “bad cholesterol”. And the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 complements the action of Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL in the normalization of lipid metabolism. Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL is presented in the form of tablets or powder in a two-chamber sachet. It is used once a day for a course of 6 to 8 weeks.

4. Adopt a healthy lifestyle: proper nutrition, moderate physical activity, avoiding smoking and alcohol.

5. Visit doctors regularly and undergo medical examinations.
All these tips will help strengthen the cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of heart pain.

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What hurts under the ribs on the left side: organs, symptoms, help

Pain in the left hypochondrium can be associated with a variety of reasons. The “guilty” of unpleasant sensations can be the kidneys, and the stomach, and the intestines, and even the lungs with the heart. It is important to understand why the pain appeared, when to go to the doctor and how not to miss a really dangerous situation.

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Health problems

Pain

digestion

Indeed, with pain in the left hypochondrium, some causes turn out to be completely harmless and do not require a visit to a doctor. Others are quite serious – in this case, you definitely can’t do without medical assistance.

It hurts on the left under the ribs: when the situation is life threatening

First, let’s deal with really serious problems that need to be helped as soon as possible.

Heart attack

If you suspect a heart attack – a heart attack – you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

The most common symptoms of a heart attack: squeezing pain behind the sternum, pain in the arms and legs. Pain can also spread to the jaw, radiate to the back or neck.

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Other common symptoms:

• severe fatigue;
• sudden dizziness;
• nausea, indigestion, heartburn;
• shortness of breath;
• sweating.

Angina

Another disorder affecting the functioning of the heart is angina pectoris. It also causes pressing pain in the chest, which can spread to the shoulders, to the jaw, to the back, to the side.

Additional signs of angina pectoris:

• shortness of breath;
• dizziness;
• nausea;
• vomiting.

Angina pectoris is not an independent disease – it is a symptom that indicates possible heart problems, such as coronary heart disease.

Pericarditis

Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart can be caused by various causes. Depending on the severity of inflammation and the duration of symptoms, several types of pericarditis are distinguished – from acute, lasting no more than 3 weeks, to chronic, which drags on for months.

Symptoms of pericarditis:

• sharp pain in the center of the chest or on the left, which may be aggravated by breathing;
• severe weakness;
• cough;
• leg swelling or abdominal enlargement;
• short breathing while lying down;
• temperature increase.

Pain on the left side under the ribs due to digestive problems

Gas formation

During digestion, gas is formed, which can get stuck in the digestive tract for some time. This will be accompanied by abdominal pain, cramps, bloating.

You can cope with this by adjusting your diet by eliminating dairy products, fried foods, and soda. In addition, it is recommended to eat in small portions, refuse chewing gum or use straws for drinks. If you can’t cope with gas formation, the doctor may recommend medication.

Constipation

Constipation is said to be when a person goes to the toilet “largely” less than three times a week, or when their stool is hard and difficult to pass through the digestive tract. Constipation is a common cause of abdominal pain, especially in children.

To combat constipation, lifestyle and dietary changes may be recommended – more fiber should be added to the diet, in addition, the doctor may prescribe medications that improve the bowel movement.

Heartburn

A common condition that causes pain in the chest and under the ribs. Patients are tormented not only by pain, but also by a burning sensation.

Drugs may be prescribed for treatment, as well as weight loss, diet changes, avoiding fatty and spicy foods.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

This is a chronic disease, the exact causes of which are unknown. Patients experience abdominal pain accompanied by spasms. So they may experience constipation or diarrhea.

In addition, among the signs there are:

• bloating;
• feeling of incomplete defecation and urge to defecate;
• stool with mucus.

Other causes of pain in the abdomen under the ribs on the left

There are other conditions that can cause pain in the left hypochondrium.

Kidney stones

In addition to pain, patients also experience other symptoms:

• pain when urinating;
• back pain;
• nausea and vomiting;
• blood in urine.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. There are acute and chronic pancreatitis, the symptoms of each of these forms are different.

Acute pancreatitis:

• abdominal pain radiating to the back;
• abdominal pain worse after eating;
• tension in the abdomen;
• high temperature;
• nausea and vomiting;
• rapid pulse.

Chronic pancreatitis:

• upper abdominal pain;
• weight loss;
• oily stool.

Pneumonia

An infection that affects the lungs can cause pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs. Among the most common symptoms:

• high fever;
• chills;
• cough;
• headache;
• shortness of breath;
• acute chest pain on coughing and breathing;
• severe fatigue

Pneumonia can also be accompanied by pain in the hypochondrium.

Broken ribs

Ribs can be broken as a result of trauma. People with osteoporosis experience fractures more often than others – even a minor blow can be enough for them.

• chest pain;
• pain that is aggravated by breathing;
• inability to take a deep breath;

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, which can be associated with various causes. In addition to painful sensation under the ribs, endocarditis may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

• heart failure;
• fever;
• fatigue;
• weight loss;
• dull pain in abdomen;
• a feeling of fullness in the stomach even after a small amount of food eaten.

Appendicitis

Despite the fact that appendicitis – inflammation of the appendix – is localized on the right, pain can spread throughout the abdomen, it can also be felt in the left hypochondrium, although this happens quite rarely.