Боли в грудной клетке: причины, диагностика и лечение

 

Крупные органы нашего организма (сердце, пищевод, желудок, легкие) и сеть сосудов, которая опутывает их, получают и проводят нервные импульсы. Все это скопление нервных клеток концентрируется в грудном нервном узле – ганглии. Поэтому при болях в каком-либо органе нам кажется, что болит грудная клетка. Это происходит из-за перекрестного совмещения проводящих нервов в спинных одноименных узлах. К примеру, дискомфорт в эпигастрии может отдавать в плечи, спину и руки.

Сердечно-сосудистые причины боли

Грудные или эпигастральные боли могут описываться как тупые, острые, ноющие, тянущие либо давящие. Зачастую пациенты описывают дискомфорт как висцеральные боли. Сильный импульс в грудном отделе может сигнализировать о серьезной патологии – остеохондрозе грудной клетки. Именно поэтому каждому человеку необходимо знать разницу между болями в сердце и болями при остеохондрозе.

Заболеваний, при которых болит грудина, множество. Немало из них представляют угрозу для жизни. К таковым относятся:

• инфаркт миокарда;
• стабильная и нестабильная стенокардия;
• повышенный пневмоторакс;
• частичное расслоение аорты;
• повреждение пищевода;
• перикардит;
• пневмония любого происхождения;
• панкреатит;
• различные недоброкачественные опухоли в грудной клетке;
• другие болезненные состояния, не несущие потенциальной угрозы для жизни;
• остеохондроз;
• небольшие травмы грудного отдела;
• рефлюксная желудочно-пищеводная болезнь;
• дисфагии;
• холецистит;
• не прободные язвы.

Как правило, ни дети, ни молодые люди моложе 35 лет не подвержены ишемическому инфаркту, хотя инфаркт может случиться и в раннем возрасте. Гораздо чаще в этом возрасте встречаются поражения скелета, сколиозы, заболевания мышц или легких.

Боль в груди – самая распространенная причина вызова «скорой помощи». Сильный дискомфорт в данной области при заболеваниях сердечно-сосудистой системы может возникнуть при:

• инфаркте миокарда;
• любой стенокардии;
• закупорке легочной артерии;
• поражении грудной части аорты;
• перикардите.

Обычным примером дискомфорта или боли в грудной клетке является стенокардия. При физическом или эмоциональном напряжении, сердечной мышце не хватает кислорода и возникает боль в области сердца, появляется чувство сдавливания и нехватки воздуха. Боль часто не воспринимается как боль – это сдавление или дискомфорт. Такие ощущения возникают именно на высоте нагрузки или волнения.

Болевой приступ и неприятные ощущения при стенокардии быстро проходят после снятия нагрузки. Дискомфорт исчезает в течение 5 мин, а если купировать приступ нитроглицерином – за 1.5 -2 мин.

Болевой импульс при стенокардии иногда вызывается спазмом сосудов миокарда. Спонтанная или внезапная стенокардия характеризуется такими же болевыми ощущениями, как и классическая стенокардия (напряжения). Зачастую у пациентов присутствуют обе разновидности заболевания.

Приступ спонтанной стенокардии эффективно нейтрализуется нитроглицерином. Такой четкий и стабильный эффект от приема данного препарата имеет важное диагностическое значение и говорит о спазмолитическом происхождении приступа (ишемии).

Боли в грудной клетке при остеохондрозе

Боль при грудном остеохондрозе бывает разного характера. Термином дорсаго специалисты называют «грудинный прострел». Приступ начинается внезапно и сопровождается очень сильной болью, чувством стеснения груди и нехваткой воздуха. Иногда возникают сопутствующие симптомы: скованность, заторможенность движений, напряжение отдельных мышц.

Зачастую боль напоминает о себе при резком вставании после длительного нахождения в сидячем положении. Такой болевой импульс не продолжителен и утихает быстро.

Иначе обстоят дела с дорсалгией. Ее симптомы кардинально противоположны. Сильная боль не появляется сразу. Сначала пациент испытывает легкий дискомфорт, а затем появляются продолжительные боли тупого ноющего характера.

При любом физическом напряжении или при ходьбе боли усиливаются. Такое состояние сохраняется на протяжении 15-25 дней. Сильный импульс возникает при наклоне корпуса или при вдохе.

Присутствуют сопутствующие симптомы: тугоподвижность конечностей и напряжение в тканях мышц. Своего пика болевой синдром достигает поздним вечером или ночью. К утру боль постепенно утихает.

После пробуждения и подъема необходимо провести небольшую разминку, это снизит интенсивность болевых ощущений до легкого дискомфорта или покалывания.

Диагностика остеохондроза грудной клетки

О наличии у пациента остеохондроза грудной клетки свидетельствуют множество явных симптомов, на основании которых специалист диагностирует заболевание. Диагностика проводиться амбулаторно. Сначала при осмотре пациента собирается анамнез, позволяющий дифференцировать хроническое состояние от острого и рецидивирующего.

При необходимости врач назначает рентгеновское или ультразвуковое обследование грудной клетки. В особых случаях может понадобиться проведение КТ (компьютерная томография) или МРТ (магнитно-резонансная томография) шейно-грудного отдела с целью получения более четкой картины заболевания.

Далее проводится амбулаторное лечение. После выписки пациенту назначается поддерживающая терапия до полного исчезновения симптоматики.

Повреждение коленного сустава, а в частности вывих, сопровождают такие симптомы:

• Острая и постоянная боль в сочленении, которая усиливается при движении.
• Плохая подвижность, тут либо невозможность двигать ногой, либо ограниченная амплитуда.
• Отек колена, указывающий на кровоизлияние в ткани и нарушение сосудистой целостности.
• Отсутствие в стопе чувствительности ‒ серьезный признак, говорящий о крупном повреждении нервных стволов.

Отличие болей при остеохондрозе от сердечных болей

Боли в сердце называют стенокардией. Они отличаются следующими параметрами:

• Имеют давящий характер. Очень часто при таком диагнозе больной ощущает тянущие неприятные ощущения или давление на определенную область.
• Основное место, в котором особенно остро ощущаются боли — грудная клетка в области грудины или горла.
• Многих пациентов при стенокардии мучает одышка.
• Боли возникают на высоте нагрузки и заставляют ее прекратить.
• Рассказывая про боль, пациент прикладывает к груди кулак или руку.
• Боль длится до 5 минут, реже – 10-15 минут.
• Боль четко купируется нитроглицерином или нитроспреем.

Остеохондроз проявляется иначе. Интенсивность болевого синдрома снижается при смене положения тела. При стенокардии такие действия не помогут. Чтобы ослабить боль принимают лекарственные средства, например, валидол. Если же болевой синдром не утихает после приема таблеток — это хондроз.

Почему болит грудная клетка: травмы и переломы

Распространенными причинами болей в грудной клетке могут служить травмы или же переломы в этой области. Характер, который будут носить эти неприятные ощущения, зависит в большей мере от того, в каких условиях были получены травмы.

Если организм получил повреждение во время падения, то боль будет носить ноющий характер. К тому же ее сила будет относительно высокой. Во время смены положения тела или физических нагрузок боли становятся сильнее. Ближе к ночи они также могут усиливаться.

Если травма была получена в драке

— боль очень острая. Чаще всего неприятные ощущения не пропадают полностью при смене положения, а могут лишь уменьшить свою интенсивность.

Если же деструктивное воздействие на организм произошло вследствие ДТП, то стоит быть максимально осторожными. Организм в дорожно-транспортном происшествии может впасть в состояние шока. Внешне это можно определить по цвету губ или кожи. В таком случае боли притупляются или отсутствуют вообще на протяжении длительного времени. Этот период может длиться до десяти часов. Опасность таких травм заключается в том, что больной может не догадываться о переломе и вести привычный образ жизни. Однако вскоре шоковое состояние сменится острым болевым синдромом. Чаще всего в таких случаях больных необходимо немедленно госпитализировать. Очень важно своевременно узнать о травмах, полученных в ДТП. Их характерными симптомами являются: ломка суставов, костей и позвоночника.

Травму грудной клетки не менее важно своевременно диагностировать. Для этого необходимо обратить внимание на следующие характерные симптомы:

• Боли. Они имеют совершенно разный характер, но концентрируются в точке травмы. Болевые ощущения становятся острее при ощупывании травмированного места, резком движении или глубоком дыхании. Также могут отдавать в голову.
• Давление. В таком случае оно не будет отличаться стабильностью и может значительно снизиться.
• Головокружение.
• Тошнота.
• Рвота.

Из-за недостатка кислорода в организме, вследствие травмы грудной клетки, человек может потерять сознание. Не исключается и более плохой исход – летальный. Таких больных необходимо госпитализировать в срочном порядке.

Далее с учетом всех существующих факторов и симптомов подбирается план лечения пациента.

В тяжелых случаях, при повреждении позвонков, обязательна операция. Крайне важно учесть присутствует ли алкоголь в крови, так как именно он воздействует на ЦНС и может продлить болевой шок.

Причины болей в груди у женщин

Женщины часто испытывают дискомфорт в области грудной клетки. Все случаи индивидуальны и зависят от разных факторов — гормональных изменений в организме при менструации, беременности, овуляции. Боли такого характера не несут опасности для организма женщины. После 45 лет причиной может служить изменение гормонального фона. Но происходит это уже из-за возраста.

Кроме того, боли могут возникнуть из-за воспалительных процессов в молочных железах, остеохондроза и неправильной осанки.

Другие заболевания

Молочные железы, из-за своего характерного строения, подвергаются влиянию изменений в шейном и плечевом отделах, и наоборот. То есть если боль от груди переходит резко в боль плечевую — это оправдано. Существует диагноз мастит. И он очень схож со стенокардией по специфике проявления болевых ощущений. Злокачественные опухоли в груди чаще всего выявляются у женщин не моложе 55 лет. В этом случае боли имеют острый, режущий характер. Они могут не только концентрироваться в одном месте, но и переходить к плечу.

Симптомы, требующие немедленного вызова «неотложки»

Все симптомы, которые были описаны выше, не являются безобидными. Ставить диагноз, а тем более лечиться самостоятельно нельзя ни в коем случае, так как это может привести к негативным последствиям. Чтобы не усугубить состояние необходимо знать, в какой ситуации нужно вызвать скорую медицинскую помощь. «Неотложка» требуется если:

• Ощущается режущая боль, терпеть которую в сознании практически невозможно, но и сон при таких болях затруднителен.
• Боли перемещаются к плечу или же в шейный отдел.
• Затрудняется процесс дыхания, грудь сдавливает.
• Начинается кружиться и побаливать голова, тошнит, рвет.
• Боли не утихают через 10-15 минут.
• Боли не утихают при смене положения тела.
• Усиливается температура тела.
• Появляется отдышка или даже кашель с кровью.

Если хоть один из этих симптомов присутствует у больного, то необходима срочная госпитализация. Пока помощь не приедет, стоит лежать в горизонтальном положении во избежание осложнений.

Принимать какие-либо медикаменты без назначения врача не рекомендуется, так как это может притупить симптомы заболевания и помешать специалистам его диагностировать. Даже если боли утихли после приезда врачей, стационарное лечение, в данном случае, строго необходимо!

© 2018, Голуб Олег Васильевич. Все права защищены.

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You may develop pain along your back or chest before the shingles rash becomes apparent. Panic attacks can also cause chest pain. 90003 90002 You may have other symptoms that occur with chest pain. Identifying symptoms you may be having can help your doctor make a diagnosis. These include: 90003 90020 Heart-related symptoms 90021 90002 While pain is the most common symptom of a heart problem, some people experience other symptoms, with or without chest pain.Women, in particular, have reported unusual symptoms that later have been identified as being the result of a heart condition: 90003 90020 Other symptoms 90021 90002 Symptoms that may indicate your chest pain is not heart-related include: 90003 90002 Seek emergency treatment immediately if you think you may be having a heart attack and especially if your chest pain is new, unexplained, or lasts more than a few moments. 90003 90002 Your doctor will ask you some questions, and your answers can help them diagnose the cause of your chest pain.Be prepared to discuss any related symptoms and to share information about any medications, treatments, or other medical conditions you may have. 90003 90020 Diagnostic tests 90021 90002 Your doctor may order tests to help diagnose or eliminate heart-related problems as a cause of your chest pain. These may include: 90003 90004 90005 an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which records your heart’s electrical activity 90006 90005 blood tests, which measure enzyme levels 90006 90005 a chest X-ray, which is used to examine your heart, lungs, and blood vessels 90006 90005 an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to record moving images of the heart 90006 90005 an MRI, which is used to look for damage to the heart or aorta 90006 90005 stress tests, which are used to measure your heart function after exertion 90006 90005 an angiogram, which is used to look for blockages in specific arteries 90006 90013 90002 Your doctor might treat chest pain with medication, noninvasive procedures, surgery, or a combination of these methods.Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your chest pain. 90003 90002 Treatments for heart-related causes of chest pain include: 90003 90002 Treatments for other causes of chest pain include: 90003 90002 Shop for antacids. 90003 90002 Your doctor can treat and resolve chest pain caused by many common conditions. These may include acid reflux, anxiety attacks, and asthma or related disorders. 90003 90002 However, chest pain can also be a symptom of a life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical treatment if you think you may be experiencing a heart attack or another heart problem.This can save your life. 90003 90002 Once your doctor makes a diagnosis, they can recommend additional treatments to help you manage your condition. 90003.90000 Chest Pain and Headache: Causes, Diagnosis, and More 90001 90002 Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical treatment. Every year, about 5.5 million people get treatment for chest pain. However, for about 80 to 90 percent of these people, their pain is not related to their heart. 90003 90002 Headaches are also common. In rare cases, people may experience a headache at the same time they experience chest pain. When these symptoms occur together, they may indicate the presence of certain conditions.90003 90002 Note that even if the chest pain and headache are not related to a serious condition, such as a heart attack or stroke, many causes of chest pain require urgent medical attention. 90003 90002 Chest pain and headache rarely occur together. Most conditions they’re both associated with are also uncommon. A very rare condition called cardiac cephalgia 90009 limits blood flow to the heart, which leads to chest pain and a headache. Other possible causes linking the two include: 90003 90011 Depression 90012 90002 There is a relationship between the mind and body.When a person experiences depression or extreme, long-lasting feelings of sadness or hopelessness, symptoms of headache and chest pain may occur. People with depression often report physical symptoms such as backaches, headaches, and chest pain, which may or may not be related to somatization. 90003 90011 Hypertension 90012 90002 High blood pressure (hypertension) does not cause any symptoms unless it’s uncontrolled or end stage. However, when blood pressure gets very high, you may have chest pain and a headache.90003 90002 The idea that high blood pressure causes headaches is controversial. According to the American Heart Association, evidence suggests headaches are usually only a side effect of very high blood pressure. A blood pressure that may cause symptoms could be a systolic pressure (top number) greater than 180 or a diastolic pressure (bottom number) greater than 110. The chest pain in times of very high blood pressure may be related to extra strain on the heart . 90003 90011 Legionnaires ‘disease 90012 90002 Another condition that involves chest pain and headache is an infectious disease called Legionnaires’ disease.The bacteria 90024 Legionella pneumophila 90025 causes the disease. It’s mostly spread when people inhale water droplets contaminated with the 90024 L. pneumophila 90025 bacteria. Sources of these bacteria include: 90003 90029 90030 hot tubs 90031 90030 fountains 90031 90030 swimming pools 90031 90030 physical therapy equipment 90031 90030 contaminated water systems 90031 90040 90002 In addition to chest pain and headache, the condition can cause symptoms such as: 90003 90011 Lupus 90012 90002 Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues.The heart is a commonly affected organ. Lupus can lead to inflammation in different layers of your heart, which can cause chest pain. If the lupus inflammation also extends to the blood vessels, it can cause headaches. Other symptoms may include: 90003 90011 Migraines 90012 90002 According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine, chest pain can be a symptom of a migraine headache. However, this is rare. Migraine headaches are severe headaches that are not related to tension or sinuses.Researchers do not know what causes chest pain to occur as a migraine side effect. But treatments for migraines will typically help resolve this chest pain. 90003 90011 Subarachnoid hemorrhage 90012 90002 A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious condition that results when there is bleeding in the subarachnoid space. This is the space between the brain and the thin tissues that cover it. Having a head injury or bleeding disorder, or taking blood thinners, can lead to a subarachnoid hemorrhage.A thunderclap headache is the most common symptom. This type of headache is severe and starts suddenly. Other symptoms can include: 90003 90011 Other causes 90012 90011 Unrelated causes 90012 90002 Sometimes a person has chest pain as a symptom of one condition and a headache as a symptom of a separate condition. This could be the case if you have a respiratory infection and are also dehydrated. Even if the two symptoms are not directly related, they can be cause for concern, so it’s best to seek medical attention.90003 90002 Chest pain and headache are two concerning symptoms. Your doctor will start the diagnostic process by asking you about your symptoms. Questions might include: 90003 90029 90030 When did your symptoms start? 90031 90030 How bad is your chest pain on a scale of 1 to 10? How bad is your headache on a scale of 1 to 10? 90031 90030 How would you describe your pain: sharp, aching, burning, cramping, or something different? 90031 90030 Is there anything that makes your pain worse or better? 90031 90040 90002 If you have chest pain, your doctor will likely order an electrocardiogram (EKG).An EKG measures the electrical conduction of your heart. Your doctor can look at your EKG and try to determine if your heart is under stress. 90003 90002 Your doctor will also likely order blood tests that include: 90003 90029 90030 90079 Complete blood count. 90080 Elevated white blood cells could mean the presence of an infection. Low red blood cells and / or platelet count could mean you are bleeding. 90031 90030 90079 Cardiac enzymes. 90080 Elevated cardiac enzymes could mean your heart is under stress, such as during a heart attack.90031 90030 90079 Blood cultures. 90080 These tests can determine if bacteria from an infection are present in your blood. 90031 90040 90002 If needed, your doctor could also order imaging studies, such as a CT scan or a chest X-ray. Because there are so many possible causes of these two symptoms, your doctor may have to order several tests before making a diagnosis. 90003 90011 Additional symptoms 90012 90002 Several symptoms can go along with a headache and chest pain. These include: 90003 90002 If you experience these symptoms along with chest pain and headache, seek immediate medical attention.90003 90002 Treatments for these two symptoms vary based on the underlying diagnosis. 90003 90002 If you’ve been to the doctor, and they’ve ruled out a serious cause or an infection, then you can try at-home treatments. Here are some possible approaches: 90003 90029 90030 90079 Get plenty of rest. 90080 If you have an infection or a muscle injury, rest can help you recover. 90031 90030 90079 Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. 90080 Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help reduce symptoms of headache and chest pain.However, aspirin can make the blood thinner, so it’s important your doctor rules out any bleeding disorder before you take it. 90031 90030 90079 Apply a warm compress to your head, neck, and shoulders. 90080 Taking a shower can also have soothing effects on a headache. 90031 90030 90079 Minimize stress as much as possible. 90080 Stress can contribute to headaches and body pain. There are many activities that can help you reduce stress in your life, like meditation, exercise, or reading. 90031 90040 90002 Remember that even if your doctor ruled out a serious condition, it’s possible that headache and chest pain could become more severe.If your symptoms get worse, seek medical attention again. 90003.90000 15 Causes and When to Seek Emergency Help 90001 90002 If you have a pain on the left side of your chest, your first thought may be that you’re having a heart attack. While chest pain can indeed be a symptom of heart disease or heart attack, that’s not always the case. 90003 90002 Continue reading as we explore some causes of chest pain, what the accompanying symptoms might be, and what you should do about it. 90003 90002 Left-sided chest pain can be due to a heart attack or other life-threatening condition for which every minute matters.Call your local emergency services if you or someone near you has unexplained left-sided or center chest pain along with: 90003 90008 90009 feeling of pressure or tightening of the chest 90010 90009 shooting pain in the arms, neck, jaw, back, or abdomen 90010 90009 breathing difficulties 90010 90009 weakness, lightheadedness, or dizziness 90010 90009 nausea or vomiting 90010 90019 90002 Angina is not a disease in itself, but it’s generally a symptom of a heart problem such as coronary heart disease.Angina is the chest pain, discomfort, or pressure you get when your heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen from blood. You might also have discomfort in your arms, shoulders, neck, back, or jaw. 90003 90002 It’s crucial that the underlying condition is properly diagnosed and treated. Diagnostic testing may include: 90003 90002 Treatment will depend on the cause, and may include medication, lifestyle changes, and cardiac procedures as necessary. 90003 90002 A heart attack is when the heart muscle is damaged because it can not get enough oxygen-rich blood.Some heart attacks start with mild chest pain that builds up slowly. They can also start quite abruptly, with intense pain on the left side or center of your chest. Other symptoms of heart attack can include: 90003 90008 90009 tightening, squeezing, or crushing pressure in the chest 90010 90009 pain in your left arm, though it can also occur in the right arm 90010 90009 shooting pain in your neck, jaw, back, or stomach 90010 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 cold sweat 90010 90009 heartburn, nausea, or vomiting 90010 90009 abdominal pain 90010 90009 lightheadedness or dizziness 90010 90019 90002 Symptoms of heart attack vary from person to person.The most common symptom in both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. Women are more likely to experience: 90003 90008 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 nausea 90010 90009 vomiting 90010 90009 back or jaw pain 90010 90019 90002 If you or someone near you experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. With a heart attack, every second counts. The longer the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen, the greater the chances that the damage will be permanent. 90003 90002 Emergency care can begin as soon as medical personnel arrive.After a hospital stay, you may need to continue on medication. Lifestyle modifications should include: 90003 90002 Chest pain can be an indication that your heart muscle is inflamed. Other symptoms include: 90003 90008 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) 90010 90009 fatigue 90010 90019 90002 Myocarditis can affect your heart’s electrical system, weakening your heart or causing permanent damage to the heart muscle. 90003 90002 Mild cases sometimes improve without treatment, but severe cases may require medication.Treatment depends on the cause. 90003 90002 Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle or enlarged heart. It’s possible to have cardiomyopathy without symptoms, but it can also cause chest pain. Other symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 dizziness 90010 90009 heart palpitations 90010 90009 swelling of ankles, feet, legs, hands, or abdomen 90010 90019 90002 Treatment involves medications, cardiac procedures, and surgery. Certain lifestyle changes can help, too.These include: 90003 90008 90009 reducing salt intake 90010 90009 losing excess weight 90010 90009 avoiding alcohol 90010 90009 engaging in light to moderate exercise on a regular basis 90010 90019 90002 The pericardium is the two thin layers of tissue that surround the heart. When this area becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause a sharp stabbing pain on the left side or middle of the chest. You might also have pain in one or both shoulders. These symptoms can imitate a heart attack.90003 90002 It may be mild and even clear up on its own. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. 90003 90002 Panic attacks come on abruptly and tend to peak within 10 minutes. Due to chest pain and other symptoms, a panic attack can simulate a heart attack. In addition to chest pain, some other symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 rapid heartbeat 90010 90009 shakiness or dizziness 90010 90009 sweating, hot flashes, or chills 90010 90009 nausea 90010 90009 feelings of unreality or detachment 90010 90009 feeling as though you might choke 90010 90009 intense fear or sense of doom 90010 90019 90002 If you think you’ve had a panic attack, see your doctor.Other health problems, such as heart and thyroid disorders, can produce similar symptoms, so you want to be certain of the diagnosis. 90003 90002 Panic disorder is a mental health problem that can be treated. Your doctor may recommend psychotherapy. If it’s an ongoing problem, there are some medications that might help. 90003 90002 You might also find it helpful to: 90003 90008 90009 practice stress management and relaxation techniques 90010 90009 join a support group 90010 90009 stay away from caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs 90010 90009 engage in regular physical activity 90010 90009 make sure you get a full night’s sleep every night 90010 90019 90002 Heartburn is the chest pain and discomfort you get when digestive acid flows up into your esophagus (acid reflux).You might also have: 90003 90008 90009 a burning sensation in your upper abdomen and chest 90010 90009 sour taste in your mouth 90010 90009 stomach contents flowing up to the back of your throat 90010 90019 90002 Heartburn generally happens fairly soon after you’ve eaten. It can also happen when you lie down within a few hours of eating. It can even wake you from a sound sleep. 90003 90002 Acid reflux can sometimes progress to a more severe form called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).The main symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn. In addition to chest pain, GERD can also cause coughing, wheezing, and trouble swallowing. 90003 90002 You can usually ease heartburn with over-the-counter antacids. Your doctor can prescribe a stronger medication if necessary. If you have frequent heartburn, it might help to: 90003 90008 90009 eat smaller meals 90010 90009 avoid fried or fatty foods 90010 90009 avoid alcohol and tobacco 90010 90009 lose excess weight 90010 90019 90002 A hiatal hernia is when the upper part of your stomach pushes through the large muscle between your abdomen and chest (diaphragm).Symptoms include: 90003 90008 90009 chest pain 90010 90009 abdominal pain 90010 90009 heartburn 90010 90009 regurgitation of food into your mouth 90010 90019 90002 You can ease symptoms by: 90003 90002 You may not need any treatment, but see your doctor if symptoms persist. 90003 90002 Chest pain can mean that there’s something wrong with your esophagus. For example: 90003 90008 90009 An esophageal muscle spasm can mimic the same type of chest pain as a heart attack. 90010 90009 The lining of your esophagus can become inflamed (esophagitis), causing burning or sharp chest pain.Esophagitis can also cause pain after meals, swallowing problems, and blood in your vomit or stools. 90010 90009 An esophageal rupture, or tear, lets food leak into the chest cavity, causing mild to severe chest pain. It can also lead to nausea, vomiting, and rapid breathing. 90010 90019 90002 Treatment depends on cause. An esophageal rupture must be surgically repaired. 90003 90002 Chest pain can be the result of pulled, strained, or sprained muscles in the chest or between the ribs. Any injury to your chest can cause chest pain.This includes: 90003 90008 90009 bruising of the chest wall 90010 90009 fractured breastbone (sternum) 90010 90009 fractured ribs 90010 90019 90002 This type of injury may also cause pain when you take a deep breath or cough. 90003 90002 If you believe you’ve broken a bone, see your doctor right away. It can take weeks to improve and even longer to fully recover. In the meantime, you’ll have to avoid strenuous activity. 90003 90002 Sudden and sharp pain on either side of your chest could be the result of a collapsed lung (pneumothorax).This can be due to disease or from trauma to the chest. Other symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 shortness of breath or rapid breathing 90010 90009 skin turning blue 90010 90009 cough 90010 90009 fatigue 90010 90019 90002 Treatment will depend on the cause, but it’s important to seek medical help immediately. 90003 90002 Sharp or stabbing chest pain that worsens when you take a deep breath or cough could mean you have pneumonia, especially if you’ve recently had a respiratory illness such as bronchitis or influenza.90003 90002 Other symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 cough, sometimes with mucus 90010 90009 fever, chills, or shaking 90010 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 headache 90010 90009 loss of appetite 90010 90009 fatigue 90010 90019 90002 See your doctor if you think you have pneumonia . In the meantime, get plenty of rest and drink a lot of fluids. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antivirals. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. 90003 90002 Chest pain can sometimes be a symptom of lung cancer.Other signs and symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 intense coughing, coughing up mucus or blood 90010 90009 pain in the shoulder or back, unrelated to pain from coughing 90010 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 recurring bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia 90010 90009 loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss 90010 90019 90002 Symptoms may not appear in early-stage lung cancer. In general, the sooner you’re diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome. 90003 90002 Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the lungs.In addition to chest pain, it can cause: 90003 90008 90009 dizziness or fainting 90010 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90009 loss of energy 90010 90019 90002 As the disease progresses, it can lead to irregular heartbeat and racing pulse. Untreated, it can lead to heart failure. 90003 90002 A sudden, sharp chest pain can be a sign of pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is a blood clot in the lungs. Other symptoms are: 90003 90008 90009 back pain 90010 90009 lightheadedness 90010 90009 shortness of breath 90010 90019 90002 This is a medical emergency that calls for immediate treatment.90003 90002 Quite a few conditions share symptoms that accompany chest pain. If you have chest pain for no known reason, consult with your doctor so you can start working toward a diagnosis. 90003 90002 Sudden chest pain accompanied by symptoms such as trouble breathing, pressure on your chest, and dizziness could signal a life-threatening emergency. Get help immediately. 90003.90000 How to Get Rid of Mucus in Chest: 8 Tips 90001 90002 If you’re dealing with a persistent cough, you likely have a buildup of mucus in your chest. 90003 90002 Although this is not a life-threatening condition, it can certainly affect your quality of life. And left untreated, it can lead to additional complications. 90003 90002 Before you head to the doctor, there are a few things you can do to help clear up your symptoms at home. 90003 90002 Keep reading to learn more about the different treatment options available.90003 90002 For many people, home remedies are an effective first-line treatment. Try these options: 90003 90012 Drink liquids 90013 90002 Drink lots of fluids. It sounds cliché, but you likely hear this advice so often because it works. 90003 90002 Liquids help thin out mucus. Warm liquids in particular can help clear out mucus in the chest and nose. This can relieve congestion, giving you a small respite from your symptoms. 90003 90002 You may wish to sip: 90003 90020 90021 water 90022 90021 chicken soup 90022 90021 warm apple juice 90022 90021 decaffeinated black or green tea 90022 90029 90012 Use a humidifier 90013 90002 Steam can also help loosen mucus and clear up congestion.Depending on your needs, you can make your own steam room or humidifier at home. 90003 90002 You can also pick up a humidifier at your local drug store. Cool mist humidifiers are an option, as well. They’re often preferred in warmer climates where steam may not be ideal. 90003 90002 You may find it beneficial to use the humidifier at night and keep it near your bed. This can help ease congestion while you’re sleeping so that you can sleep easier through the night. 90003 90002 Be sure to keep your bedroom door and window closed to keep the vapor from escaping.90003 90002 There are a couple of ways to DIY your own humidifier: 90003 90042 Allow your shower to become a sauna 90043 90002 Let the water run until it begins to steam up the bathroom. To maximize your steam, step into the shower and close the curtain or door. 90003 90002 Make sure the showerhead is pointed away from you so that the water does not scald your skin. 90003 90042 90049 Use a bowl and a towel 90050 90043 90002 For a more targeted steam, place a large bowl in your sink and fill it with hot water.Once it’s full, lean over the bowl. 90003 90002 Place a hand towel over your head to help trap the steam around your face. 90003 90002 There are not any set guidelines for how long to sit in the steam, so use your best judgment. 90003 90002 If at any point the heat becomes overwhelming or makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from the steam. Drinking a glass of cold water can help you cool down and rehydrate. 90003 90002 Natural remedies are often beneficial in cases of mild or infrequent congestion.90003 90002 Give these natural options a shot: 90003 90012 Take honey 90013 90002 Researchers in one 2007 study found evidence to suggest that buckwheat honey may be more effective than traditional medication at relieving cough. 90003 90002 The researchers enrolled 105 children between the ages of 2 and 18 to participate. They received buckwheat honey, a honey-flavored cough suppressant known as dextromethorphan, or nothing at all. 90003 90002 Results revealed that parents found buckwheat honey to provide the most symptom relief for their kids.90003 90002 You can purchase buckwheat honey at most health food stores and specialty food shops. Simply take a spoonful every few hours like you would any cough medicine. However, you should not give honey to children who are younger than 1 year due to the risk of botulism. 90003 90012 Use essential oils 90013 90002 Certain essential oils may help loosen mucus in the chest. 90003 90002 Peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil are also used as natural decongestants. 90003 90002 You can make use of essential oil in one of two ways: 90003 90042 Diffuse it: 90043 90002 If you want to diffuse the oil into the air, you can pick up a diffuser from your local drug store.You can also add a couple of drops of the oil to a hot bath or bowl of hot water so the scent is released into the air. 90003 90002 For a more targeted approach, fill a bowl with hot water and a few drops of the essential oil. Lean over the bowl and cover your head with a hand towel to help trap the steam. Breathe in the steam for 5 to 10 minutes. 90003 90042 90049 Apply it topically: 90050 90043 90002 You’ll need to do a skin patch test first. To do this, mix your essential oil with a carrier oil, like jojoba or coconut oil.90003 90002 The carrier oil helps dilute the essential oil and reduces your risk of irritation. A good rule of thumb is 12 drops of carrier oil for every 1 or 2 drops of essential oil. Then, apply the diluted oil to the inside of your forearm. 90003 90002 If you do not have any irritation within 24 hours, it should be safe to apply elsewhere. 90003 90002 Once it’s clear that the oil is safe on your skin, you can apply the diluted oil directly to your chest. Repeat as needed throughout the day.90003 90002 Never apply an essential oil to inflamed, irritated, or injured skin. You should also keep all essential oils away from your eyes. 90003 90002 If home or natural remedies are not relieving your congestion, you may want to give an OTC medication a try. 90003 90012 Take a decongestant 90013 90002 Decongestants are available in liquid, tablet, or nasal spray form at your local drug store. Common OTC options include: 90003 90002 Follow the directions on the packaging. A decongestant can speed up your heart rate and make it harder to fall asleep.You may find it better to take during the daytime. 90003 90012 Slather on a vapor rub 90013 90002 Vapor rubs also contain decongestive ingredients, but they’re applied topically instead of ingested. 90003 90002 In one 2010 study, researchers studied children who received either vapor rub treatment, petrolatum ointment, or no medication. Vapor rub scored the highest in providing relief from cough and congestion. 90003 90002 The ointment did not relieve symptoms significantly better than no treatment at all.So, it’s thought that the combined camphor and menthol of a vapor rub supplies the most symptom relief. 90003 90002 You can purchase vapor rubs at any drug store. Common OTC chest rubs that contain camphor and menthol include: 90003 90002 You can usually rub it onto your chest every night until the symptoms go away. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. 90003 90002 If OTC options still do not help, you should see your doctor. 90003 90002 It’s important to determine the cause of your mucus and cough.They may recommend prescription-strength medication as a result. 90003 90012 Discuss a prescription decongestant 90013 90002 If you find that the mucus lasts for more than three to four days, or that your condition gets worse quickly, you can ask your doctor for a prescription decongestant. 90003 90002 It’s simply a stronger version of OTC decongestants. Your doctor will instruct you on how often to take it. 90003 90012 Discuss a prescription nasal spray 90013 90002 If the congestion is also in your nose, nasal decongestant sprays can help open up your nasal passageway.90003 90002 Talk to your doctor about how long you should use them. Typically, if you use nasal sprays for more than three days in a row, you may end up stuffed up again. 90003 90002 If your symptoms persist, make an appointment to see your doctor. This is especially true if you have a fever, chest pain, or trouble breathing. 90003 90002 It’s also important to see a doctor if: 90003 90020 90021 the congestion worsens and lasts longer than three or four days 90022 90021 mucus changes from a runny substance to a thicker texture 90022 90021 mucus has a green or yellow color, as this may indicate an infection 90022 90029 90002 In most cases, mucus and related congestion will clear up within 7 to 9 days.90003.