Will Gastric Cause Chest Pain?

Chest Pain

Yes, gastric issues can sometimes cause chest pain. This type of chest pain is often referred to as non-cardiac chest pain because it originates from the gastrointestinal tract rather than the heart. Some common gastric conditions that may cause chest pain include:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. This can result in a burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn, which may be experienced as chest pain, especially after eating or when lying down.
  • Peptic Ulcers: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to erosion from stomach acid. Chest pain associated with peptic ulcers may feel like a dull, gnawing, or burning pain that is typically located in the upper abdomen but can radiate to the chest.
  • Gastritis: Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, excessive alcohol consumption, or the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Chest pain associated with gastritis may be felt as a dull ache or discomfort in the upper abdomen that can radiate to the chest.
  • Esophageal Spasm: Esophageal spasms are abnormal contractions of the muscles in the esophagus that can cause chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sensation of food getting stuck in the chest. These spasms may be triggered by factors such as acid reflux, stress, or consuming hot or cold foods.
  • Gallbladder Disease: Gallbladder issues, such as gallstones or inflammation (cholecystitis), can cause chest pain that may be felt in the upper abdomen or right side of the chest. The pain may be sharp and intermittent, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods.

It’s important to note that while gastric issues can cause chest pain, not all chest pain is related to the gastrointestinal tract. Chest pain can also be a symptom of serious cardiac conditions such as angina or a heart attack. Therefore, if you experience chest pain, especially if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause.

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