Pressure in the Chest

What is it?

Pressure in the chest is the sensation of tightness, heaviness, or discomfort in the chest area, which can be associated with various diseases or conditions. This sensation may be short-lived or prolonged and is sometimes accompanied by pain, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms.

Causes of Pressure in the Chest

• Cardiovascular diseases: The most common cause of chest pressure is cardiovascular diseases such as angina, myocardial infarction, hypertension, or coronary artery disease.
• Respiratory problems: Conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, emphysema, or asthma can lead to a sensation of tightness in the chest.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease: Acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus can cause burning sensations and pressure in the chest.
• Anxiety disorders: Stress, panic attacks, and anxiety can cause a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest even without serious medical conditions.
• Muscle spasms: Spasms of the intercostal muscles or damage to the chest muscles can cause pain and pressure in the chest area.
• Spinal problems: Conditions such as osteochondrosis or other spinal disorders may compress nerves, leading to sensations of pressure in the chest.

When to See a Doctor?

• If chest pressure is accompanied by chest pain, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or sweating.
• If the symptoms last for more than a few minutes or worsen over time.
• If you experience difficulty breathing, especially combined with chest pain.
• If the symptoms are related to physical exertion or appear after stress or anxiety.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Examination and history: The doctor will perform an examination, listen to your complaints and history, to determine the possible cause of chest pressure.
• ECG: An electrocardiogram will help detect heart diseases such as angina or myocardial infarction.
• Chest X-ray: This test may help detect lung diseases such as pneumonia or emphysema.
• Blood tests: A complete blood count and tests for enzyme levels may help identify heart or inflammatory conditions.
• Treatment: Depending on the cause, the doctor may prescribe medications to improve heart function, treat gastroesophageal reflux, anti-anxiety medications for anxiety disorders, or anti-inflammatory drugs for infections.