Pain under the heart can be caused by a variety of medical conditions. Some of the most common causes of this type of pain include:
Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux, gallstones, pancreatitis, and ulcers can all cause pain under the heart. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest. Gallstones can block the bile ducts, leading to pain and pressure in the abdomen. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause sharp, stabbing pains in the abdomen. Ulcers can cause a burning sensation in the stomach and chest.
Cardiovascular Issues
Cardiovascular issues such as angina, aortic dissection, and heart attack can cause pain under the heart. Angina is a chest pain caused by coronary artery spasm or disease. An aortic dissection is a tear in the aorta, which can cause a sudden, sharp pain in the chest. A heart attack is the result of a blocked artery, and can cause a crushing pain in the chest.
Musculoskeletal Issues
Musculoskeletal issues such as rib fractures, costochondritis, and muscle spasms can cause pain under the heart. Rib fractures are breaks in the ribs, which can cause sharp pain in the chest. Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum, which can cause a sharp, stabbing pain in the chest. Muscle spasms can occur in the chest wall, leading to sharp, sudden pain.
Respiratory Issues
Respiratory issues such as pneumonia, pleurisy, and pulmonary embolism can cause pain under the heart. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, which can cause a sharp pain in the chest. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the lining of the lungs, which can cause a sharp, stabbing pain in the chest. A pulmonary embolism is a blockage of an artery in the lungs, which can cause a sudden, sharp pain in the chest.
Psychological Issues
Psychological issues such as anxiety and panic attacks can cause pain under the heart. Anxiety can cause a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest. Panic attacks can cause a sudden, intense feeling of fear and dread, accompanied by chest pain.