Chest pain can be a scary experience. Whether it’s a sharp jolt or a dull ache, it’s a signal from your body that something isn’t quite right. Understanding how to relieve chest pain safely is important, especially when it comes to knowing when to seek medical care. In this article, we’ll talk about common chest pain causes, what symptoms to watch for, and practical tips and treatments to help ease your discomfort.

What Is Chest Pain?

Chest pain is any discomfort or pain you feel in your chest area. It can range from mild to severe and can feel like pressure, squeezing, burning, or stabbing sensations. Some people even experience random chest pain that comes and goes without an obvious reason.

Because chest pain can have many causes, it’s important to pay attention to your symptoms and understand what might be behind the pain. 

Common Chest Pain Causes

Here are some typical causes of chest pain:

• Heart-related issues: Such as angina (reduced blood flow to the heart), heart attack, or inflammation of the heart lining.
• Lung problems: Including pneumonia, pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs), or chest pain when breathing due to pleurisy.
• Digestive issues: Acid reflux, GERD, or esophageal spasms can cause chest discomfort.
• Muscle or rib injury: Strained chest muscles or rib fractures may cause sharp pain.
• Anxiety or panic attacks: Can result in chest tightness or pain.
• Other causes: Shingles or inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone.

Urgent Chest Pain Symptoms to Watch For

If you experience severe chest pain lasting more than a few minutes, pain spreading to your arms, jaw, neck, or back, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, cold sweat, nausea, dizziness, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat, it is crucial to call 911 or seek emergency care at once. 

These could be symptoms of a heart attack or other serious medical conditions that require urgent attention. Don’t delay. Getting prompt help can be life-saving.

How to Relieve Chest Pain at Home

If your chest pain is mild or related to non-emergency causes, here are some ways you can try how to relieve chest pain safely at home:

Practice Deep, Slow Breathing

Deep, slow breathing helps reduce anxiety and improves oxygen flow to your body. To do this, sit comfortably and take slow, deep breaths — inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Repeat this process for a few minutes until you start to feel calmer and your chest pain eases.

Use a Warm Compress

A warm compress can help ease discomfort from muscle strain or rib injuries in the chest. Apply it for 15–20 minutes at a time to relax the muscles and reduce pain. However, avoid using heat if you’re unsure of the cause of your chest pain or if you notice swelling, redness, or unusual warmth in the area — these could be signs of infection or inflammation that require medical attention.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective in lessening pain and inflammation. However, it’s important to always follow the recommended dosing instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions before taking these medications.

Avoid Heavy Meals and Acidic Foods

If you think acid reflux might be causing your chest pain, try to avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods. Eating smaller meals and staying upright for a while after eating can also help prevent discomfort.

Stay Hydrated and Rest

Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest can help your body heal. It’s also important to avoid strenuous activities until your chest pain has improved.

When Chest Pain Occurs When Breathing

Chest pain when breathing can be particularly concerning because it may indicate underlying lung or heart problems. If you notice that the pain worsens with deep breaths, coughing, or movement, it’s important to avoid physical exertion and try to sit in a comfortable position, such as upright, to help ease your breathing.

Additionally, monitor yourself for other symptoms like fever, cough, or swelling in your legs, which could suggest a more serious condition. If the chest pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider right away for proper evaluation and care.

Chest Pain Treatments From Your Telehealth Provider

If your chest pain isn’t an emergency but still needs medical evaluation, telehealth services are a great option. Through virtual visits, you can:

• Describe your symptoms in detail.
• Receive an initial diagnosis.
• Get prescriptions for medications or referrals for in-person tests.
• Access advice on lifestyle changes and pain management.

Telehealth makes it easier and safer to get timely care without leaving home.

How to Stop Chest Pain: Preventive Measures

Once you know the cause of your chest pain, here are some steps to reduce the chance of it happening again:

• Manage heart health: Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
• Quit smoking: Smoking elevates the risk of heart and lung problems.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your heart.
• Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
• Follow medication plans: Take prescribed medications exactly as directed.

Get Expert Care for Your Chest Pain Today

Have chest pain that concerns you? Don’t wait. Visit our telehealth platform for chest pain concerns today to connect with licensed healthcare providers who can help evaluate your symptoms and guide you through the best chest pain treatments — all from the comfort of your home. Your heart health matters! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the common reasons for chest pain during breathing?

It can be caused by several conditions, including lung infections like pneumonia, inflammation of the lung lining (pleurisy), pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs), or heart-related issues. It’s important to get checked by a healthcare provider if you experience this symptom.

When should I seek emergency care for chest pain?

You should seek emergency care urgently if your chest pain is severe, lasts more than a few minutes, spreads to your arms, jaw, neck, or back, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, cold sweats, or nausea. These could be signs of a heart attack or other serious conditions.

Can anxiety cause chest pain?

Yes, anxiety and panic attacks can cause chest pain or tightness. This type of chest pain is usually related to rapid breathing, muscle tension, or heightened stress responses. However, it’s important to rule out other medical causes first by consulting a healthcare provider. 

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Medically Reviewed By: Ma. Lalaine Cheng