The chest wall pain, known as costochondritis, it has nothing to do with the heart, but when a sharp pain that occurs suddenly or gradually, it may seem to associate with a heart attack.
The Mayo Clinic Health Letter offers an overview of this condition is usually temporary. Costochondritis is due to inflammation of the flexible cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum and can affect anyone, including children, being more common among women and people over 40 years.
Costochondritis can cause pain in a specific area, usually on one side of the sternum, and one or more sites where the ribs meet the breastbone. The pain is usually sharp, although it may be dull or constant. In addition, pain may also occur with deep breathing or coughing and can intensify when the arms are raised.
Costochondritis generally can not be seen on chest radiographs or other imaging tests could be performed to rule out other possible causes.
Costochondritis usually does not happen by itself and treatment focuses on controlling the pain as time passes with sensitivity. In some patients, pain persists for several months. When symptoms are mild, counter pain relievers may relieve them, but when symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants or painkillers.
Mayo Clinic Health Letter reminds patients to seek emergency care provided to any oppression and pain they feel new, unexplained chest that lasts more than a few minutes. For the pain that is less alarming or tenderness in the sternum that does not improve, it is wise to make an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause.