The question "Why does my heart hurt?" can have several answers because the feeling of 'heart pain' can arise from different conditions. Based on the provided reference, here are the most common causes of chest pain related to the heart:
Potential Causes of Heart-Related Pain
It’s important to note that while you might feel pain in your chest, it could also originate from other structures in the area, and not just your heart. The provided reference specifies two major heart problems that typically cause chest pain:
- Pericarditis:
- Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac-like membrane surrounding your heart.
- It typically causes a sudden, sharp, stabbing pain in the chest.
- The pain tends to worsen when you breathe deeply or lie down.
- Angina or a Heart Attack:
- Angina and a heart attack share similar symptoms, but a heart attack is more severe and life-threatening.
- These conditions usually result from a lack of blood flow to the heart muscle.
- These can present as tightness, pressure, or a squeezing sensation, not always sharp pain.
Differentiating the Pains
| Condition | Description | Nature of Pain | When Pain Worsens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pericarditis | Inflammation of the sac around the heart. | Sudden, sharp, stabbing. | With deep breaths or lying down. |
| Angina/Heart Attack | Reduced blood flow to heart muscle. | Tightness, pressure, squeezing (not always sharp). | Could be associated with activity or at rest. |
What to Do If You Have Heart Pain
- Seek Medical Advice: It is very important to consult a doctor if you experience chest pain, especially if you’re not sure of the cause.
- Emergency: If you suspect a heart attack based on the above symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately. Do not delay; this is a life-threatening situation.
- Note the specifics: Try to describe the pain accurately to the medical professional. Knowing the quality (sharp vs. dull), location, and timing, as well as what makes it better or worse can help with diagnosis.
It’s also worth noting that your pain might not be related to your heart at all. Other conditions, such as gastrointestinal problems, muscle strain, or anxiety, can also cause chest pain.
