Chest pain and palpitations can be caused by a wide range of conditions, from minor to serious. Common causes of chest pain and palpitations include heartburn, stress and anxiety, anemia, and pneumonia. Other more serious causes include heart attack, pulmonary embolism, and arrhythmia.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This can cause chest pain and palpitations. Symptoms of heartburn include burning chest pain, sour taste in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing. Treatments for heartburn may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can cause chest pain and palpitations. During times of stress, the body releases hormones that cause the heart to beat faster. This can cause chest pain and palpitations. Treatments for stress and anxiety include lifestyle changes, counseling, and medications.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells. This can cause chest pain and palpitations due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. Treatments for anemia include lifestyle changes, iron supplements, and medications.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can cause chest pain and palpitations due to inflammation of the lungs. Symptoms of pneumonia include chest pain, fever, and shortness of breath. Treatments for pneumonia include antibiotics, rest, and fluids.
Heart Attack
A heart attack is a medical emergency caused by a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It can cause chest pain and palpitations due to an inadequate supply of oxygen to the heart. Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, sweating, and shortness of breath. Treatments for a heart attack include medications and surgery.
Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs. It can cause chest pain and palpitations due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood. Treatments for a pulmonary embolism include medications and surgery.
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat caused by electrical abnormalities in the heart. It can cause chest pain and palpitations due to the disruption of the normal heart rhythm. Symptoms of an arrhythmia include chest pain, dizziness, and fainting. Treatments for an arrhythmia include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.