Chest Pain Shouldn't Be Ignored

Angina

Chest pain or discomfort when your heart doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood is known as angina. You may feel pressure or squeezing in your chest, which may radiate to your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. 

There are two types of angina: stable and unstable. Stable angina usually occurs with activity, excitement, or emotional stress and is relieved with rest. It will begin at a low level, then gradually increase within the next few minutes. On the other hand, unstable angina is unexpected chest pain and can come on at any time, even during sleep.

Neither type of angina is a disease in itself but rather a symptom of an underlying heart problem, most likely coronary heart disease. Unstable angina may signal an impending heart attack, which is why it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. 

Pulmonary Embolism

Another source of chest pain can arise from a pulmonary embolism. An embolism occurs when a clot (typically from your leg or pelvic veins) lodges in your lung’s pulmonary artery. You may feel a sharp or stabbing pain or a burning, aching, or dull, heavy sensation under the breastbone or on one side. You may also experience shortness of breath. Since the clot cuts off blood flow to your lungs, a pulmonary embolism is potentially life-threatening.

Heart Valve Disease

The heart has four valves that keep blood flowing in the right direction. They also ensure the proper circulation of blood throughout the body. If a valve malfunctions, you may develop heart valve disease. You may not experience any symptoms with a diagnosis of heart valve disease for many years, but when you do, you may experience chest pain in addition to shortness of breath, a heart murmur, and chest pain. 

COVID-19

Constant pain or pressure in your chest can be a symptom of the coronavirus, especially when it’s accompanied by trouble breathing, fever, chills, nausea, and diarrhea. If you feel this is the reason for your chest pain.