Pain in the chest: why?

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Extract from the article: Pain in the ribcage, known as intercostal pain, is often a cause for concern. It may suggest a myocardial infarction. This pain can have many causes, whether related to thoracic or extra-thoracic problems.

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Pain in the ribcage, known as intercostal pain, is often a cause for concern. It may suggest a myocardial infarction. This pain can have many causes, whether related to thoracic or extra-thoracic problems.

 Intercostal or thoracic pain may feel tight, burning or cramping, with varying degrees of intensity, appearing suddenly or gradually, and intensifying with inspiration or coughing.

 Causes

Although we often think of the heart, other factors can explain this pain.  These may include sudden shocks or movements, such as a fall, a false move, a stretched muscle or a cracked rib. It may be due to minor inflammations, such as Tietze's syndrome, which affects the rib cartilage. Other causes include back problems, osteoarthritis or compressed vertebrae, infections such as shingles, or nerve pain. Stomach, liver and pancreas problems can also affect the chest.

When should you seek medical advice?

If you're experiencing intense pain in the chest, rising to the jaw and radiating down the arm, you're clearly in the early stages of an infarction.Emergency services should be called.

In general, chest pain should not be taken lightly, and requires medical advice to ensure that it is not the sign of a serious condition.

What tests should be carried out for intercostal pain?

Depending on the outcome of the standard medical examination, which includes cardiac and pulmonary auscultation, the patient may be asked to undergo further tests to detect any abnormalities. A chest X-ray and/or an electrocardiogram will usually resolve any doubts.

Raymond DZAKPATA

 Source: Docteur Patrick Assyag, cardiologist (France).