Types of chest pain and their treatments
The first thing that chest pain, especially upper left chest pain, brings into the minds of many is a heart attack. Well, it can be a symptom of a heart attack, but there are a plethora of other possible causes as well. It can be felt anywhere from the neck down to the upper abdomen and can be a dull, sharp, stabbing, burning, aching, or a crushing sensation, depending on the cause. Chest pain should never be ignored, and knowing the following facts about it can prevent a number of associated health problems.

What are the common causes of chest pain?

• Injured ribs : An injury in the ribs, including breaks, fractures, and bruises, is one of the causal factors of chest pain.
• Muscle strain : Muscle strain is another possible reason for chest pain. If the pain worsens with activity, it might mean that there is inflammation in the muscles and tendons around the ribs.
• Peptic ulcers : Peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach lining that usually don’t cause intense pain. However, they do cause discomfort in the chest that feels like chest pain.
• Asthma : This condition characterized by inflammation of the airways causes chest pain, along with other symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

When should one see a doctor?

• If the right side chest pain or pain anywhere in the chest comes on suddenly, one should consult a doctor immediately.
• If the pain doesn’t go away even after taking anti-inflammatory medications.
• If the pain spreads to the top jaw, back, and the left arm.
• If the pain is accompanied by rapid breathing and a rapid heartbeat.

What are the types of diagnostic tests available for diagnosing chest pain?

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray
• Echocardiogram
• MRI
• Stress tests
• Angiogram

What are the types of chest pain?
Based on the causes and symptoms, chest pain is divided into the following types:

• Heart-related
• Stress-related
• Broken ribs
• High blood pressure-related
• Muscle or nerve disorder
• Chest pain related to bone problems
• Psychological chest pain

How is chest pain treated?

• The treatment is subject to the cause of the chest pain.
• If the pain is due to acid reflux, over-the-counter antacids can help.
• To treat chest pain due to stress, stress management techniques are advised to patients.
• Patients are advised to take ample rest and avoid certain activities that cause muscle strain and chest pain.
• A combination of medications and invasive procedures is used for treating cardiac chest pain.
• Surgical intervention is usually required for treating chest pain caused by a collapsed lung.