Chest pain from a spasm can feel like a sharp, burning, or squeezing sensation in the chest. It may be accompanied by pain in the shoulder, arm, or jaw. It is important to note that chest pain from a spasm can feel very similar to chest pain caused by a heart attack.
Causes of Chest Pain from a Spasm
Chest pain from a spasm can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as muscle strain, inflammation of the chest wall, or a pinched nerve. Other possible causes of chest pain from a spasm include stress, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Symptoms of Chest Pain from a Spasm
In addition to the chest pain, a person may experience other symptoms when they have chest pain from a spasm. These symptoms can include difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea, sweating, and an irregular heartbeat.
Diagnosing Chest Pain from a Spasm
In order to diagnose chest pain from a spasm, a doctor will typically take a medical history, perform a physical examination, and order tests such as an ECG or chest X-ray. The doctor may also order blood tests to rule out other potential causes of the chest pain.
Treating Chest Pain from a Spasm
Treatment for chest pain from a spasm will depend on the underlying cause. Common treatments include rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications or muscle relaxants to help relieve the chest pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.