Chest Pain Below The Breastbone: Possible Causes And Management

Chest pain located below the breastbone, also known as the epigastric region, can arise from a variety of underlying conditions. One of the most common and serious causes is coronary artery disease, particularly angina pectoris. This type of chest discomfort typically occurs after physical exertion or emotional stress and is often relieved by rest or sublingual administration of medications like nitroglycerin or quick-acting heart pills. The pain usually lasts less than 30 minutes and is often described as a pressure, tightness, or squeezing sensation in the chest.

Cardiac Causes Of Central Chest Pain

Angina pectoris is a classic manifestation of myocardial ischemia, where the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Symptoms may also be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or radiating pain to the left arm, neck, or jaw. It is crucial to seek medical evaluation if experiencing these symptoms, especially if they are new or worsening, as they could indicate a potential heart attack.

Gastrointestinal Conditions That Mimic Heart Pain

Several gastrointestinal disorders can also cause pain in the epigastric area, often mimicking cardiac-related discomfort. Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, esophageal ulcers, achalasia, and Mallory-Weiss tears can all lead to significant central chest pain. This type of pain is often associated with eating and may be described as burning or sharp in nature.

How To Differentiate Between Heart And Stomach Pain

One key distinguishing factor is that gastrointestinal-related discomfort may improve with changes in body position, antacids, or after eating, whereas cardiac pain typically remains constant regardless of posture or food intake. However, due to the overlapping symptoms, it's essential to rule out heart-related causes first before attributing the pain to a digestive issue.