A heart attack is probably the first thing you think of when you experience chest pain. However, chest pain isn't always related to heart problems. Research has found that chest pain is caused by muscle contractions around the ribs.
These contractions are uncontrollable and cause the chest muscles to tense and spasm, commonly known as chest cramps. To avoid mistreating chest cramps, you need to understand the causes.
Let's take a look at some of the causes of chest muscle cramps and how to treat them.
Causes of Chest Muscle Cramps
Chest muscle cramps generally appear due to a number of factors, including:
1. Gastric acid
Under certain conditions, stomach acid can rise into the esophagus. This condition is called acid reflux. The result is a burning sensation around the breastbone, often mistaken for a heart attack.
If you experience acid reflux more than twice a week, consult a doctor immediately. This is a symptom of GERD, which requires immediate treatment.
2. Costochondritis (Bone Inflammation)
Another fairly common cause of chest pain is costochondritis, an inflammatory condition of the rib joints and chest cartilage. Causes can range from chest injury to viruses.
This condition is characterized by symptoms such as pressure on the chest wall like being stabbed.
3. Muscle cramps
Strenuous activities like sports can strain your muscles, including your chest muscles. This is especially true if you experience a chest nerve compression injury.
The pain can radiate from your chest down your arm, even leading to numbness. This is why muscle cramps are often mistaken for a heart attack.
These are some conditions that cause chest muscle cramps other than heart attacks. If cramps occur, remain calm to prevent further muscle tension.
How Doctors Diagnose Chest Muscle Cramps
If you feel a pulled, tense, or severe chest pain, this could indicate a chest muscle injury. It's best to see a doctor immediately to determine the severity and receive appropriate treatment.
During the diagnosis process, the doctor will usually ask about symptoms, medical history, and activities that may trigger the pain. A physical examination and supporting tests, such as an X-ray, may be performed to further assess the condition.
Chest Muscle Injury Levels
The doctor will then determine the level of injury based on the muscle damage that occurs, namely:
- Grade 1 (Mild): 5% muscle fiber damage occurs. This usually results in a slight decrease in strength and movement. Recovery takes approximately 2–3 weeks.
- Grade 2 (Moderate): The injury affects a larger area of muscle fibers, but the tissue is not completely damaged. Recovery generally takes 2–3 months.
- Grade 3 (Severe): The muscle is completely torn, causing significant damage. In these cases, specialized medical procedures are often required to repair the damaged muscle tissue.
How to Treat Chest Muscle Cramps
There is a first treatment method to relieve cramps called RICE ( Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation ):
- Rest (Take a rest immediately)
When cramps occur, stop activity immediately until the chest cramps subside. If the cramps recur, even after several days, reduce your activity level or take time to rest at home.
- Ice (Compress the painful area)
To help relieve the pain of chest muscle cramps, apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Apply the compress to the painful area for approximately 20 minutes. You can repeat this process several times until you feel more comfortable.
- Compression (Bandage with bandage)
In addition to compresses, you can wrap your sore chest with a bandage. However, you should seek the assistance of an experienced nurse or doctor to help you apply the bandage correctly.
- Elevation (Being in a higher position)
If cramps occur, you can sit up straight. Avoid lying down when chest muscle cramps occur. While sitting upright, you can give yourself a light massage until you feel more comfortable.
- Taking pain relievers
Pain relievers may be an option if the cramps do not subside.
Risks and Complications of Chest Muscle Injuries and Cramps
Generally, chest muscle injuries and cramps can heal within a few days to a few weeks without causing serious problems. However, in more severe cases that are not promptly treated, these injuries can potentially impair respiratory function and even increase susceptibility to lung infections.
If your chest muscle cramps or injuries don't improve, don't delay consulting a doctor. A medical examination will help determine the exact cause so you can receive appropriate treatment and prevent future complications.
Article written by Dr. Emile Tumpal Hombaron, Sp.JP (K) FIHA (Heart & Blood Vessel Specialist, EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).