Chest spasms can cause extreme pain and may be a symptom of an underlying medical problem. Causes include trauma, electrolyte imbalances, and chronic conditions. It’s important to see a doctor for evaluation, as chest pain can be difficult to diagnose and may be a sign of poor circulation. Diagnostic tools include medical imaging, blood tests, and heart function studies.
Chest spasms are contractions of the chest muscles that can cause extreme pain until the muscles are released. They are usually symptoms of an underlying medical problem and there can be a number of reasons for this symptom to develop. People experiencing recurring spasms may wish to see a doctor for an evaluation and should definitely mention this condition in routine doctor visits, as they may be cause for concern.
When the chest muscles contract, people may feel a feeling of tightness, contraction, or pressure in the chest. Muscles can also contract. Some patients report a floating sensation when the chest muscles contract. It can be difficult or painful to catch your breath. The associated pain levels vary by patient and by cause, but can be excruciating. Once the muscles have relaxed, the feeling of pain and tightness should resolve very quickly, leaving the patient feeling comfortable again.
Some causes of chest spasms can include chest trauma, electrolyte imbalances, neurological damage, and some chronic conditions such as asthma and fibromyalgia. People may also develop chest muscle pain in response to tension, anxiety, or stress. Fatigue can also be a factor, as muscles may be depleted of nutrients and spasm in response even though the patient’s electrolytes appear to be in balance. Low levels of magnesium and calcium, in particular, are associated with muscle cramps and spasms.
Sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint the origins of chest pain. Chest spasms may feel like a heart attack or may be felt in the muscles when they are actually originating in the coronary artery or esophagus. Because several conditions can cause chest pain, it’s important to get a doctor’s evaluation for chest spasms that persist, especially if they’re accompanied by nausea, dizziness, vomiting, redness of the fingers and toes, or other symptoms that suggest poor circulation. involved.
In an examination for chest spasms, a doctor may recommend medical imaging studies, blood tests, and heart function studies in addition to performing a physical exam. These diagnostic tools will check for underlying problems that may be responsible for the spasms. A thorough interview will also be conducted to learn more about when the spasms occur. Patients may find it helpful to take notes when they experience chest spasms, as these notes can be used to identify patterns and trends.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
