Stress Chest Pains in Women

Stress chest pains in women can be frightening. The tightening sensation is similar to that described in heart attack. The thought that it might be heart attack can increase stress chest pains.

Stress chest pains in women may indeed be heart related, but they may be something else. Not all that is called chest pain is a result of heart disease. The part of the spinal cord that receives pain signals from the heart is near the spinal cord area that receives similar signals for chest pain. Because of this, run over in these spinal cord areas can make us believe we have heart pain when it is chest pain. It can also make us believe we have chest pain, arm, or even back pain when it is the heart.

Causes of Chest Pains in Women

It would be foolish to attempt to list every cause of chest pain in women, but the following are an example. You will want to discuss your chest pain with a qualified, licensed physician.

* Angina pectoris: Chest pains may indicate one or more blocked arteries. The blockage reduces blood flow to the heart, depriving it of oxygen and resulting in chest pain. This chest pain is pressure, often said to feel like an elephant sitting on the chest, or vise-like pain.

* Periconditis: Another heart problem that may cause chest pains is periconditis, inflammation of the heart lining.

* Other Heart Conditions: Other cardiac problems can also cause chest pains in women and men alike.

* Musculoskeletal: Chest pain may, however involve muscles and the skeleton. Chest pain of this type usually produces tenderness of the chest wall when it is touched. It may also be felt when the shoulder or arm are moved.

* Gall Bladder: Chest pain that is related to eating may be gall bladder disease.

* Acid reflux: Chest pain that is felt when the stomach is empty might be related to acid reflux, heartburn, or ulcer disease.

* Arthritis: Chest pain may also be referred pain from arthritis of the cervical spine area.

Stress Chest Pains in Women

Stress chest pains in women are not surprising when you consider the effects of stress on the body. Stress, when it is a response to negative demands made upon us, is often a “fight-or-flight” response. It brings about definite physical changes. It prepares the body to run away or fight the enemy.

When this response is activated, the brain calls for a flood of chemicals such as adrenaline, cortisol, and noradrenaline. These chemicals are released into the bloodstream, and the body undergoes a series of dramatic changes.

* You breathe faster.
* Blood is redirected from the digestive tract to muscles and limbs. This provides energy and fuel for running and fighting.
* Your pupils dilate and your eyesight sharpens.
* Your awareness intensifies, and your impulses quicken.
* Muscles contract and tighten.
* … and more

These physical changes can tighten the chest, causing chest pains. If the woman believes the chest pains indicate a serious health challenge, she may further tighten the muscles, increasing stress chest pains.

Helpful Tip

Chest pain can indicate coronary artery disease, but it can also be caused by conditions that are not related to the heart, most of which are less serious. If you have chest pains of any type, it is best to err on the side of caution. See a physician immediately and discuss your concerns.