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Causes of non-cardiac chest pain: Here is what we should know

About

It is described as the pain in the chest that is not caused by heart disease or a heart attack.

According to research, 70 million people out of the total population in the United States suffer from non- cardiac chest pain.[1]

Not self-treatable
Usually, self-diagnosable
Laboratory tests and imaging are required
Long-term: Can persist for months or years

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux , esophageal contraction disorders, visceral (esophageal) hypersensitivity, musculoskeletal conditions, pulmonary (lung) disorders, pericardial conditions and digestive disorders and stress.

NCCP is described as a chest pain that resembles heart pain (angina) in patients who do not have heart disease. It can affect children as well as older patients. While it affects both men and women, majority of affected people consists of females.

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable: Chest pain and heartburn. Usually, pain occurs after eating.
People may experience: Bitter taste in the mouth because of stomach fluid coming up.
Also common: Anxiety and depression

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis: Thorough cardiac evaluations are done to examine that the patient is not suffering from heart related problems. If the patient is not suffering from cardiac diseases, he is offered a treatment trial of acid-suppressive inhibitor medications for 2 weeks. If this does not work, other tests are taken-up. Some of them are as follows:
pH study of the esophagus
Upper endoscopy
Esophageal motility test
Ultrasound of the abdomen, to examine the gallbladder for possible stones

Treatment

Medication: Proton pump inhibitors are the most common treatment to cure NCCP caused due to GERD. If the patient responds to this treatment, the dose may be continued for 8 weeks. The cognitive behavior therapy has also helped in reducing pain for patients suffering from stress, anxiety, and depression.

Specialists: For further concern, contact a cardiologist. At mfine, you will receive a holistic treatment plan for optimum health.