What are the common causes of chest and shoulder pain. How can you differentiate between various conditions causing chest and shoulder discomfort. When should you seek immediate medical attention for chest and shoulder pain. What are the typical symptoms associated with heart-related chest pain.

Understanding the Complexity of Chest and Shoulder Pain

Chest and shoulder pain can be a perplexing and often alarming experience. The interconnected nature of these areas means that discomfort can stem from various sources, ranging from minor muscle strains to life-threatening cardiac conditions. Recognizing the nuances of this pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and timely treatment.

Do you know the potential origins of chest and shoulder pain? The pain may originate from the heart, lungs, muscles, bones, or even be referred from other parts of the body. Understanding these diverse sources is the first step in addressing the discomfort effectively.

Angina: The Warning Sign of Heart Trouble

Angina is a common cause of chest pain that often extends to the shoulder. It occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood due to narrowed or clogged arteries. While not a heart attack itself, angina is a significant warning sign of underlying heart issues.

Types of Angina

• Stable Angina: Follows a predictable pattern, often triggered by physical activity or stress
• Unstable Angina: Occurs suddenly, even at rest, and may last longer than 20 minutes

How can you differentiate between stable and unstable angina? Stable angina typically subsides within a few minutes and has a consistent trigger. Unstable angina, on the other hand, is more unpredictable and may worsen over time, requiring immediate medical attention.

Common Symptoms of Angina

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Pain radiating to the left shoulder or arms
• Fatigue and shortness of breath
• Light-headedness and nausea
• Sweating and weakness

Heart Attack: When Every Minute Counts

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. Unlike angina, a heart attack causes actual damage to the heart muscle and requires immediate emergency care.

Can heart attack symptoms differ between men and women? Yes, while chest pain is the most common symptom for men, women may experience a broader range of symptoms, including unusual fatigue, sleep disturbances, and indigestion.

Key Symptoms of a Heart Attack

1. Chest tightness or pressure
2. Pain spreading to neck, shoulders, arms, or back
3. Shortness of breath and cold sweats
4. Fatigue and dizziness
5. Indigestion or stomach discomfort

Remember, if you suspect a heart attack, call emergency services immediately. Time is crucial in preventing permanent heart damage.

Gallbladder Issues: An Unexpected Source of Chest and Shoulder Pain

The gallbladder, though small, can cause significant discomfort when problems arise. Gallstones, in particular, can lead to intense pain that may be felt in the chest and right shoulder.

Why do some people develop gallstones while others don’t? While the exact cause isn’t always clear, risk factors include being female, over 40 years old, overweight, or pregnant.

Recognizing Gallbladder Pain

• Pain in the right upper abdomen
• Discomfort below the breastbone
• Pain radiating to the right shoulder
• Ache between the shoulder blades

Gallbladder pain often occurs after eating fatty foods and can last for several hours. If you experience recurring pain in these areas, especially after meals, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Pericarditis: When the Heart’s Protective Sac Becomes Inflamed

Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered sac surrounding the heart. This condition can cause sharp chest pain that may extend to the shoulder blades.

Characteristics of Pericarditis Pain

• Sharp or dull pain in the center or left side of the chest
• Pain that worsens when lying down or breathing deeply
• Discomfort that improves when leaning forward
• Accompanying symptoms like weakness and mild fever

How is pericarditis different from other heart-related conditions? Unlike angina or a heart attack, pericarditis pain often changes with body position and is typically caused by viral infections rather than blood flow issues.

Pancreatitis: The Hidden Culprit Behind Upper Abdominal and Chest Pain

The pancreas, though tucked away behind the stomach, can cause significant discomfort when inflamed. Pancreatitis can manifest as upper abdominal pain that radiates to the chest and back.

Key Symptoms of Pancreatitis

• Upper abdominal pain that may extend to the chest
• Pain that worsens after eating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and rapid pulse

Is pancreatitis always acute, or can it be chronic? Pancreatitis can be both acute and chronic. Acute cases often resolve with proper treatment, while chronic pancreatitis may lead to long-term complications and require ongoing management.

Musculoskeletal Causes: When Your Body’s Framework Is the Source

Not all chest and shoulder pain stems from internal organs. Musculoskeletal issues, such as muscle strains, pinched nerves, or bone problems, can also cause significant discomfort in these areas.

Common Musculoskeletal Causes of Chest and Shoulder Pain

1. Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting ribs to the breastbone
2. Rotator cuff injuries: Damage to the muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint
3. Cervical spine issues: Problems in the neck vertebrae that can refer pain to the chest and shoulder
4. Thoracic outlet syndrome: Compression of nerves or blood vessels in the area between the collarbone and first rib

How can you differentiate between musculoskeletal pain and pain from internal organs? Musculoskeletal pain often changes with movement or position and may be accompanied by visible swelling or tenderness when touched. However, a proper medical evaluation is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.

Pulmonary Conditions: When Breathing Becomes Painful

Lung-related issues can also manifest as chest and shoulder pain. Conditions such as pneumonia, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism can cause sharp pain that worsens with breathing.

Key Pulmonary Conditions to Consider

• Pneumonia: Infection of the lungs that can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing
• Pleurisy: Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the lungs, leading to sharp chest pain
• Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot in the lungs that can cause sudden, severe chest pain

Are there specific warning signs that indicate a pulmonary condition rather than a cardiac issue? While both can cause chest pain, pulmonary conditions often involve more pronounced breathing difficulties, coughing, and pain that worsens with inhalation. However, some symptoms can overlap, making professional medical evaluation crucial.

Diagnostic Approaches: Unraveling the Mystery of Chest and Shoulder Pain

Given the wide array of potential causes, diagnosing the source of chest and shoulder pain often requires a comprehensive approach. Healthcare providers may use various tools and techniques to pinpoint the underlying issue.

Common Diagnostic Methods

1. Physical examination and medical history review
2. Blood tests to check for markers of heart damage or inflammation
3. Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm and function
4. Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI
5. Stress tests to evaluate heart function under exertion

Why is a thorough diagnostic process crucial for chest and shoulder pain? The overlapping symptoms of various conditions make it challenging to determine the cause based on symptoms alone. A comprehensive evaluation helps ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment Strategies: Tailoring Solutions to the Cause

Treatment for chest and shoulder pain varies widely depending on the underlying cause. From lifestyle modifications to surgical interventions, the approach is tailored to address the specific condition identified.

Treatment Options for Various Causes

• Cardiac conditions: Medications, lifestyle changes, or interventional procedures
• Gallbladder issues: Dietary modifications, medications, or surgical removal if necessary
• Pericarditis: Anti-inflammatory medications and rest
• Pancreatitis: Supportive care, dietary changes, and addressing underlying causes
• Musculoskeletal problems: Physical therapy, pain management, or targeted treatments

How do healthcare providers determine the most appropriate treatment plan? The choice of treatment depends on the specific diagnosis, severity of the condition, overall health of the patient, and potential risks and benefits of each option. It often involves a collaborative approach between different medical specialties.

Prevention and Long-Term Management: Safeguarding Your Health

While not all causes of chest and shoulder pain are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage your overall health effectively.

Key Prevention Strategies

1. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet
2. Manage stress through relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices
3. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
4. Regular health check-ups to catch potential issues early
5. Follow medical advice and take prescribed medications as directed

Can lifestyle changes really make a significant difference in preventing chest and shoulder pain? Absolutely. Many conditions that cause this type of pain are influenced by lifestyle factors. Making positive changes can significantly reduce your risk and improve overall health outcomes.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While some causes of chest and shoulder pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these red flags can be life-saving.

Warning Signs Requiring Emergency Care

• Sudden, severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath
• Pain spreading to the jaw, neck, or arms
• Chest pain accompanied by nausea, sweating, or lightheadedness
• Persistent pain lasting more than a few minutes
• Chest pain with a sense of impending doom or anxiety

Why is it crucial not to ignore these warning signs? Many serious conditions, particularly heart-related issues, require immediate treatment to prevent severe complications or even death. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical evaluation.

Emerging Research and Future Directions

The field of cardiovascular and thoracic medicine is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on the complex interplay of factors contributing to chest and shoulder pain. Recent studies have focused on improving diagnostic accuracy and developing more targeted treatments.

Promising Areas of Research

1. Advanced imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis
2. Genetic markers to identify individuals at higher risk for certain conditions
3. Novel medications with fewer side effects
4. Minimally invasive surgical techniques for faster recovery
5. Personalized medicine approaches tailored to individual patient profiles

How might these advancements change the way chest and shoulder pain is diagnosed and treated in the future? As our understanding deepens, we can expect more accurate and timely diagnoses, leading to more effective and personalized treatment strategies. This could potentially reduce the need for invasive procedures and improve overall patient outcomes.

Living with Chronic Chest and Shoulder Pain: Coping Strategies

For some individuals, chest and shoulder pain may become a chronic condition. While challenging, there are strategies to manage ongoing discomfort and maintain a good quality of life.

Effective Coping Mechanisms

• Pain management techniques, including medication and alternative therapies
• Physical therapy and targeted exercise programs
• Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, or counseling
• Support groups and community resources
• Adaptive tools and techniques for daily activities

How can individuals with chronic pain balance managing their symptoms with maintaining an active lifestyle? It’s about finding the right balance through careful pacing, listening to your body, and working closely with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive management plan. Many people with chronic pain lead fulfilling lives by adapting their activities and using various coping strategies.

The Role of Mental Health in Chest and Shoulder Pain

The connection between mental health and physical symptoms, including chest and shoulder pain, is increasingly recognized in medical research. Stress, anxiety, and depression can not only exacerbate existing pain but sometimes manifest as physical symptoms themselves.

Mental Health Considerations

1. The impact of chronic stress on physical health
2. Anxiety disorders and their physical manifestations
3. Depression and its effect on pain perception
4. The benefits of holistic treatment approaches
5. Mind-body techniques for pain management

Can addressing mental health issues alleviate physical symptoms of chest and shoulder pain? In many cases, yes. Managing stress, anxiety, and depression through therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes can significantly reduce physical symptoms and improve overall well-being. It’s essential to consider both physical and mental health when addressing chronic pain issues.

Understanding the complexities of chest and shoulder pain is crucial for effective management and treatment. Whether the cause is cardiac, musculoskeletal, or related to other organ systems, prompt and accurate diagnosis is key. By staying informed, recognizing warning signs, and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can navigate the challenges of chest and shoulder pain and maintain their overall health and well-being. Remember, when in doubt about the severity of your symptoms, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice.

Chest and Shoulder Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis

Pain from your chest to your shoulder can have many causes. Your heart, lungs, or other internal organs may be involved. If your pain is sudden or severe, it’s very important to get immediate medical care.

The pain may also be referred. This means it’s felt in your chest and shoulder but is actually caused by pain in another part of your body.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common causes of chest and shoulder pain and the treatment options for these causes.

Pain in the chest and shoulder can have many causes. Some can be more serious than others. The conditions listed below are some of the most common culprits of this kind of pain.

Angina is the name for chest pain that results from clogged and narrowed arteries around your heart. When this happens, your heart muscle isn’t able to get enough oxygen-rich blood.

It’s not a heart attack. Rather, it’s a sign you have a heart condition. Physical activity often triggers the pain, when you need more oxygen. Emotional stress can trigger it, too.

Angina can be stable. This means it follows a predictable pattern and typically occurs when you’re doing something, or when you’re stressed. With stable angina, symptoms usually go away within a few minutes.

Angina can also be unstable. This type of angina tends to occur suddenly or while you’re at rest. With unstable angina, symptoms can last longer than 20 minutes and may return. The pain may also get worse over time.

An unstable angina attack can be life threatening and requires emergency medical attention.

Symptoms

Chest pain is the main symptom of both stable and unstable angina. Pain usually starts behind the breastbone. Pain may be referred to your left shoulder or arms.

Other common symptoms include:

• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• light-headedness
• nausea or indigestion
• sweating
• weakness

A heart attack happens when a blockage in an artery in your heart stops or reduces the blood flow to your heart muscle. It’s also called a myocardial infarction.

Symptoms can start suddenly or come on slowly. People with gradual symptoms may not seek medical care right away.

If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911 or get emergency medical help immediately.

Symptoms

Heart attack symptoms can vary in intensity.

Common heart attack symptoms include:

• a feeling of tightness or pressure in your chest
• chest pain that spreads to your neck, shoulders, one or both arms, or back
• faintness or dizziness
• shortness of breath
• cold sweat
• fatigue
• indigestion, stomach pain, or heartburn

While chest pain is the most common symptom for men, women are more likely to have symptoms other than chest pain. Some of the symptoms women often experience that happen less frequently with men include:

• unusual fatigue that lasts for several days or extreme fatigue that comes on suddenly
• sleep disturbances
• anxiety
• indigestion or gas-like pain
• jaw or back pain
• symptoms that come on more gradually

Your gallbladder is a small organ on your right side that sits below your liver. Its purpose is to release bile into the small intestine. Bile helps the digestive process by breaking down the fats in the food you eat.

Gallstones are little masses that form out of hardened digestive fluid in the gallbladder. Gallstones can range in size, from grains of sand to pingpong balls.

Why some people develop gallstones isn’t clear. But risk factors include:

• being female
• being over 40 years old
• having overweight
• being pregnant

Symptoms

Sometimes gallstones don’t cause any symptoms. But gallstones can cause intense pain when they block a bile duct or when you eat fatty foods. Pain can last up to several hours.

Pain may occur on:

• your right side, above the stomach
• in the center of your stomach, below the breastbone
• in your right shoulder
• between your shoulder blades

You may also have fatigue, nausea, or vomiting.

Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac that surrounds your heart. The two-layered pericardium protects your heart and holds it in place. Fluid between the pericardium layers prevents friction when your heart beats.

Pericarditis usually starts suddenly. It can last from a few days to a few weeks. A viral infection is thought to cause most cases.

Symptoms

The main symptom is sharp or dull pain in the center of your chest or on the left side.

Other common symptoms include:

• pain that spreads from your chest to the shoulder blade
• pain that worsens when you lie down or take a deep breath
• pain that decreases when you lean forward
• weakness
• mild fever
• fatigue

Your pancreas is located behind your stomach near the first part of your small intestine. It releases fluids that help break down the food in your intestine. It also controls your body’s blood sugar by regulating the release of insulin.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. It can be chronic or acute. Acute pancreatitis can come on suddenly and usually gets better with treatment. Chronic pancreatitis gets worse over time.

The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is gallstones.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pancreatitis can vary, depending on the type of pancreatitis. The main symptom of both acute and chronic pancreatitis is pain in your upper abdomen, as well as pain that radiates to your back.

Acute pancreatitis symptoms include:

• mild or severe pain that lasts for several days
• abdominal pain that gets worse after eating
• fever
• nausea and vomiting
• fast pulse
• swollen or tender stomach

Chronic pancreatitis symptoms include:

• pain in your upper abdomen
• nausea or vomiting
• weight loss without trying
• oily stools that smell bad

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the thin layer of tissues, called pleura, that separate your lungs from your chest wall.

The most common cause of pleurisy is a viral infection in the lungs.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of pleurisy include:

• sharp chest pain that gets worse when you breathe, cough, laugh, or sneeze
• pain in your shoulders or back
• shortness of breath
• muscle or joint pain
• headaches

Some people may also experience a cough or fever.

Chest pain with shoulder pain isn’t always an emergency, but it can be very hard to tell. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to any other symptoms you may have.

Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you have:

• severe chest and shoulder pain
• have an existing heart condition
• think you’re having a heart attack

Other symptoms that can be a sign you need immediate medical attention are:

• escalating chest and shoulder pain
• difficulty breathing
• fainting or dizziness
• extreme weakness

A 2019 review looked at the most common causes of chest pain for people who went to an emergency room. The review found that:

• 31 percent of the causes were due to acute coronary syndrome, which included angina and other heart problems
• 30 percent of chest pain causes were due to acid reflux
• 28 percent of causes were due to a musculoskeletal condition

See your doctor if you have unexplained chest and shoulder pain. Any time you have chest pain, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Because there are many possible causes for chest and shoulder pain, diagnosis can be challenging.

Your doctor will take a full medical history to find out about any other health conditions you may have. They’ll also ask if your family members have heart disease or other types of conditions.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, how long they lasted, and if they changed.

Once your doctor knows more about your symptoms and any other health conditions, they’ll do a physical exam and listen to your heart and lungs.

There are many diagnostic tests your doctor may use to determine what’s causing your shoulder and chest pain. Common diagnostic tests include:

• an X-ray of your lungs, heart, gallbladder, or other organs
• an electrocardiogram (EKG) to look at how your heart is beating
• an echocardiogram to look at your heart muscle and how it’s working
• blood tests to look for signs of a heart attack or specific enzyme levels for certain conditions, like pancreatitis
• a stress test to see how your heart functions when you exercise
• a coronary angiography to find out if you have a blockage in a coronary artery
• a heart CT scan, also known as CT angiography, to look at your heart and blood vessels and to check for blood clots or other problems
• an MRI to look at heart movement and blood flow, or to get a more detailed view of your gallbladder or pancreas
• a biopsy of lung tissue if pleurisy is suspected
• a pancreatic function test to see if your pancreas is responding normally to specific hormones

Treatment for shoulder and chest pain depends on what’s causing the pain.

Because there can be so many variables, treatment plans for the same condition may be different from one person to the next. Some factors that may influence your treatment plan include:

• your age
• other health conditions you may have, including overweight
• whether or not you smoke

Heart problems

For heart problems, your doctor may prescribe:

• aspirin
• nitroglycerin
• blood thinners to prevent clots
• clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics)
• antibiotics for pain caused by an infection
• fluid drainage for pericarditis

For life threatening situations, you may need surgery, such as bypass surgery or angioplasty.

Your doctor will likely recommend lifestyle changes, including changes to your diet, physical activity, and stress management.

Gallstone attack

Depending on the frequency of your gallstone attacks, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your gallbladder. This is usually done laparoscopically.

For a less serious gallstone condition, your doctor may prescribe a drug called ursodiol. This drug may help dissolve the gallstones over time. Your doctor may also put you on a low fat diet to help prevent further gallstone development.

Some people have success with natural remedies for gallstones. Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying any at-home treatments for gallstones.

Pleurisy

Treatment for pleurisy will depend on the cause.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection. Viral infections often clear up without treatment. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help relieve chest pain.

If you have a lot of fluid buildup, known as pleural effusion, your doctor may want to drain it. This is done with local or general anesthetic. It may require a hospital stay.

A hospital stay may also be necessary if you have other health conditions that make your pleurisy more difficult to treat.

Pancreatitis

Your doctor will give you medications to help reduce the pain. You may also have to fast for a couple of days to give your pancreas a rest. You may need intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.

You may be hospitalized if your pancreatitis is severe.

Other treatment may include surgery to drain your pancreas, or surgery to remove your gallbladder if gallstones caused your pancreatitis.

Longer-term treatments may include:

• diet changes
• limiting alcohol use
• taking pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion

Other chest pain causes

For chest pain conditions that aren’t related to your heart or coronary arteries, you doctor may prescribe:

• acid suppressing drugs to reduce acid reflux
• antidepressants or therapy to help control panic attacks

Pain in your chest and shoulder can have many causes. Some of the most common include angina or other heart conditions, gallstones, pericarditis, pleurisy, or pancreatitis.

Unexplained pain that occurs in both your chest and shoulder should always be checked out by your doctor.

If the pain is severe or lasts longer than a few minutes, immediately go to the emergency room or call 911. For many conditions, the earlier you receive treatment, the better your outcome is likely to be.

Causes and When to Get Medical Help

There are a number of possible causes of chest and neck pain. The discomfort you experience in either your chest or neck may be the result of an underlying condition in one of the two areas or it might be pain that radiates from elsewhere.

Pain in your chest and neck may be caused by any of the following conditions:

• angina
• heartburn
• pericarditis
• chest infections
• esophagus disorders

Read on to learn more about these conditions.

Angina is caused by a reduction in blood flow to your heart, and symptoms include:

• nausea and dizziness
• shortness of breath
• pain extending to your neck, jaw, shoulder, arms, or back

Stable angina can result from overexertion and generally goes away by resting. Unstable angina is an emergency that involves severely decreased blood flow to the heart, often because of a rupture in a blood vessel or because of a blood clot.

If you experience the symptoms of angina, seek medical attention.

Diagnosis and treatment

Angina is often diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, or blood tests. If you are diagnosed with angina, your doctor can determine the more specific diagnosis of stable or unstable angina.

Angina is generally treated through lifestyle changes and medication, though there are surgical options. Unstable angina could be a sign of a heart attack and requires medical treatment immediately.

Heartburn occurs when some of the contents of your stomach are forced back into your esophagus. It may result in a burning sensation in your chest, especially after eating or when lying down. Heartburn can often result in a bitter taste in your mouth.

You have an increased risk of worsening heartburn if you:

• smoke
• are overweight
• consume spicy foods

Diagnosis and treatment

Though heartburn is a common condition, experiencing heartburn on multiple occasions throughout the week — or if pain worsens — is a cue to visit your healthcare provider. It may or may not indicate a more serious condition, but, following a diagnosis, your doctor can provide appropriate treatment.

If it the diagnosis suggests heartburn, you healthcare provider will suggest proper heartburn treatment such as lifestyle changes and medications.

The saclike membrane that surrounds your heart is called the pericardium. When it swells or is irritated, it can cause chest pain in your left shoulder and neck, especially when you:

• cough
• breathe deeply
• lie down

Diagnosis and treatment

The symptoms are often difficult to distinguish from other conditions related to the heart and lungs. Your doctor can provide a diagnosis, likely through an ECG, X-ray, or other imaging tests.

Some cases improve without treatment, but there are medications that reduce symptoms. One complication of the condition is called cardiac tamponade. It requires hospitalization to remove the excess buildup of fluid surrounding your heart.

While chest infections are felt primarily in the chest, you may also experience pain in your neck when breathing or swallowing.

Two common chest infections are pneumonia, an inflammation of the air sacs in your lungs, and bronchitis, which occurs when the lining of your bronchial tubes are inflamed.

Diagnosis and treatment

Bronchitis can be diagnosed through:

• chest X-rays
• sputum tests
• pulmonary function test

Acute bronchitis symptoms sometimes improve without treatment.

Bronchitis from a bacterial infection may require medication. Chronic bronchitis is often treated through a pulmonary rehabilitation program including the learning specific breathing techniques.

Pneumonia can be diagnosed through similar tests as bronchitis. Treatment usually focuses on preventing complications. This can involve:

• antibiotics
• cough medicine
• hospitalization (more serious instances)

Two conditions related to your esophagus that could result in chest and neck pain are esophagitis and esophageal spasms.

Esophagitis occurs when the lining of your esophagus is inflamed. This can cause heartburn or pain when swallowing. Esophageal spasms are contractions of your esophagus that cause chest pain. The pain is often described as a squeezing pain or a feeling something is stuck in your throat.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnostic techniques for both conditions may involve an endoscopy or X-ray.

For treating esophagitis, your doctor may help you determine which food allergies could trigger inflammation or recommend medications to relieve symptoms, such as:

• Over-the-counter antacids that reduce acid production, such as Mylanta
• Over-the-counter H-2-receptor blockers that block acid production, such as Pepsid
• Prescription strength H-2-receptor blockers

For treating esophageal spasms, your doctor may recommend treating underlying conditions such as GERD or anxiety. To relax swallowing muscles, they may suggest medications such as Viagra or Cardizem.

If conservative approaches do not work, surgery is an option for both conditions.

Experiencing pain in your chest and neck may require immediate medical attention. In fact, many symptoms of the above conditions are similar to those of a heart attack.

It is best to be cautious and seek medical attention for chest pain, especially if symptoms worsen or persist or you are at risk for a heart attack due to related conditions, age, or family history.

Conditions related to either your chest or neck may be a sign of an underlying condition that causes the pain to spread to surrounding areas. Pain in your chest or difficulty breathing or swallowing should always be taken seriously, seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

90,000 cheaters | Articles by doctors of the EMC clinic about diseases, diagnosis and treatment

The body reacts to most disorders and failures with pain and other unpleasant sensations. The first reaction to them is unambiguous – the sore spot indicates the disease itself.

Commentary for Domashniy Ochag magazine was given by Evgeny Avetisov, general practitioner, medical director of the European Medical Center.

“The right shoulder hurt, which means it blew out or turned awkwardly.” Do you know that a diseased liver can give an alarm in this way? And pain in the liver, quite possibly, causes renal colic. By the way, liver diseases are often manifested by the so-called chronic fatigue syndrome, and the liver itself, as an organ devoid of nerve endings, suffers “silently”.

Or, for example, cardiac arrhythmia, as well as depression, indigestion, insomnia, excessive sweating, hair loss, impaired nail growth, skin changes can be caused by a violation of the thyroid gland. With this disease, in general, a very difficult situation, because the thyroid gland affects all metabolic processes, it can affect any organ. This is the reason for such a variety of manifestations in the form of a wide variety of symptoms that can mask or mimic many diseases.

We asked the expert about some symptoms that can mislead us (but not attentive doctors!)

Symptom: Chest pain

At first glance: problems with the heart.

In fact: very often heart problems cause pain not in the chest at all, but, for example, in the left shoulder, in the left elbow, in the left hand, on the left side of the neck, etc. And real chest pains can be the result of intercostal neuralgia. Or lung disease – if a sharp pain in the chest is accompanied by shortness of breath, this may be a sign of pneumothorax, when a sudden rupture of the lung occurs for no apparent reason. A person can live without being aware of the peculiarities of the structure of his lungs, and suddenly – after active sports or a strong attack of coughing – there is a sharp pain in the chest, coughing, shortness of breath – a feeling of lack of air. One lung stops functioning.

Acute pain in the chest can be caused by Tietze’s syndrome – an inflammation of the junction of the ribs with the sternum. Such an indisposition is quite common, it is not dangerous to health, although it is accompanied by painful sensations, in this case, the diagnosis is usually made easily.

Pain in the middle of the sternum sometimes indicates problems with the esophagus – its inflammation, damage to a sharp bone, for example, fish, as well as a hernia of the esophageal opening of the diaphragm.

Symptom: Lower back pain

The most obvious: sciatica (“lumbago”).

In fact: May be a sign of kidney disease, such as pyelonephritis, a gynecological disease in women, most often such pain is caused by problems with the spine or muscle spasms. There is even such a special diagnosis – pain in the lower back.

Symptom: Upper abdominal pain

The most obvious: diseases of the stomach (gastritis), especially if the pain is associated with eating, the symptoms of a duodenal ulcer appear in a similar way.

In fact: such pain can be a sign of a heart attack, if the process develops in certain parts of the heart, the pain is “redirected” to the stomach area. It can also be a sign of gallbladder disease, rarely inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) or intestines. And yet – a manifestation of radiculitis or lower lobe pneumonia. To make a diagnosis, the doctor needs to take into account other additional manifestations.

Symptom: Shoulder pain

The most obvious: a disease of the shoulder itself – damage to the joint, ligaments due to overload or injury.

Actually: shoulder pain is caused by damage to the cervical spine. It can also be a sign of heart or lung disease. By the way, pain in the cervical spine sometimes mimics a heart attack – they can cause severe pain in the heart.

Changes in the cervical region helps to accurately diagnose MRI.

If we talk about the right shoulder, it is rare, but it happens – when the pain indicates a problem with the gallbladder, which irradiates to the right shoulder joint. And the pain in the left shoulder is a possible irradiation of the pain of the stomach or lungs.

Symptom: Headache

The most obvious: increased blood pressure, vascular problems, migraine.

In fact: in 90% of cases, causal relationships are also violated here. Pressure rises with any discomfort – a headache, especially severe, especially if a person is alarmed; it rises because the head hurts, and not vice versa! You need to know that a headache due to high blood pressure occurs only when the numbers are very high. With a pressure of 140/90, there may not be a headache.

Much more often headache occurs due to problems with the upper spine, neuralgia of the occipital nerve is associated with its exit to the first vertebrae. Very often it gives headaches, especially in the back of the head, temples.

Inflammation of the sinuses – sinusitis, frontal sinusitis – are also likely culprits of headache, which is localized in the forehead, eye sockets and cheekbones. Headache can be caused by a viral infectious disease, for example, herpes lesions of the nerves: occipital, trigeminal.

Vision problems also provoke a headache – people with myopia and astigmatism, especially pronounced, often experience severe pain in the forehead and temples when they are forced to read a lot, work at a computer, due to visual overload.

Headache may be associated with anemia (lack of hemoglobin), but this is rare.

As for the increase in intracranial pressure, this diagnosis is made quite often in our country: in order to make it, in fact, you need to insert a probe or do a spinal puncture.

Symptom: Joint pain

The most obvious: inflammation of the joints (arthrosis).

In fact: on the one hand, indeed, pain is often caused by degeneration of the articular cartilage. As well as an inflammatory process that develops right in the joint.

But it can also be a sign of reactive changes when the infection develops elsewhere, such as in the urogenital organs or in the gastrointestinal tract. Due to the work of the immune system, this inflammation does not manifest itself in the intestines (there is no diarrhea or disorders), and the pain is “transferred” to the joints. In this case, it is simply pointless to treat only the joints – this will only help relieve symptoms for a while, and then the process resumes.

Pain in the joints is sometimes caused by chlamydial infection, salmonella, shigella – different pathogens that “dig in” in different places, without even causing the classic symptoms of their disease – shigellosis or salmonellosis.

Therapist’s commentary

Natalia Rivkina, Head of the Psychotherapy Clinic of the European Medical Center:

Heart stone

Feelings of physical discomfort, which, as it seems to a person, are caused by a somatic disease, in fact, can be caused by neurotic conditions or mental stress. The likely cause is depression. One of the symptoms of moderate to severe depression is retrosternal pain, a feeling of heaviness in the region of the heart. Often these symptoms are confused with heart disease, manifestations of angina pectoris. How to explain this connection? With depression, such conditions arise as mental anguish, and it gives this feeling, which in everyday life we ​​call “a stone in the heart.” Often such experiences can be accompanied by a feeling of physical pain in the region of the heart. Pain is a subjective sensation. A person really feels it and experiences suffering.

Often, abdominal pain and discomfort can be caused by neurotic situations, stress, in any case, such symptoms require a complete medical examination. And only when diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are excluded, we can talk about the psycho-emotional causes of such conditions. Somatic discomfort caused by emotional factors requires, first of all, an analysis of the factors that provoke such symptoms, and the selection of an individual, adequate psychotherapeutic treatment.

Pain in the shoulders and neck – causes, treatment

Co-author, editor and medical expert – Anna Alexandrovna Petrashevich.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna

Views: 207 640

Last update date: 06/27/2023

Average reading time: 2 minutes

Content:

What causes neck pain
Motrin® for pain and neck pain

One of the most common causes of pain and discomfort in the neck and shoulder area is muscle pain in these areas ¹ . The well-coordinated work of the back muscles is necessary for the proper functioning of the spine. They allow a person to keep the neck and back in a vertical position, fix the vertebrae between themselves, which allows the body to unbend, bend and turn, and also help maintain the natural curvature of the spine, the violation of which will negatively affect the functioning of internal organs ² .

What causes neck pain

Spasms of the muscles of the upper back and neck muscles can occur due to injuries, physical overexertion, such as incorrect postures ³ . Also, the cause of pain in the shoulders and neck can be sleeping on an uncomfortable pillow. Typically, this condition is manifested by painful sensations, limited mobility of the neck ⁴ . The pain usually goes away within six weeks. To speed up the process, you can do special exercises, and it is also necessary to eliminate the cause of pain ⁵ .

Provoking factors include ^6.7 :

• prolonged stay in the same body position;
• the habit of stooping, holding the back incorrectly while working and walking;
• overweight;
• hypothermia;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• injuries;
• pathologies of the spine;
• wearing narrow, uncomfortable shoes with high heels;
• uncomfortable body position during sleep.

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Motrin® for pain and neck pain

Motrin ^® belongs to modern painkillers with anti-inflammatory action ⁸ . The drug is convenient to use: one dose of Motrin® is enough for up to 12 hours ⁹ . One of the advantages of the drug is a high safety profile.

Motrin® is available in tablet form for use by adults and children over 15 years of age ⁸ . Before use, read the instructions.

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The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

References:

1. Vorobieva OV Cervicogenic myofascial pain: practical experience // Consilium Medicum. – 2019. – T. 21. – No. 9.
2. Zozulya I. S. et al. Muscular-fascial dysfunction, ways of its correction // International neurological journal.