Chest pain is very common, and most of the time it’s nothing to worry about.
According to data from 2018, chest pain is the third most common cause of emergency room admissions in the United States. Common causes of chest pain include acid reflux, muscle injuries, and chest infections.
Though most causes aren’t dangerous, it’s important to consider serious conditions, too. Chest pain that worsens when breathing deeply — or pain that occurs with shortness of breath and chest tightness — can indicate a heart problem or inflammation around the lungs, known as pleurisy.
If you have unexplained chest pain, consider talking with a doctor. They can help you find the cause and recommend the best treatments.
When is chest pain an emergency?
Chest pain can signal a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), it’s important to call 911 for the following symptoms:
- chest discomfort, such as pressure, squeezing, pain, or fullness in the center of the chest that either lasts several minutes or comes and goes
- upper-body pain or discomfort, such as in the neck, jaw, arms, back, or stomach
- shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
- other signs, such as a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
Types of chest pain

The type of chest pain you’re experiencing can give you clues about its cause. For example:
- Muscle or bone issues can cause sharp, stabbing, or poking chest pain.
- Chest pain related to the heart or lungs can feel like a deep, dull pressure, or a squeezing sensation.
- Lung problems can cause sharp chest pain that worsens when you breathe and may also cause coughing or breathlessness.
- Heart problems can cause jaw, arm, and shoulder pain, along with breathlessness.
1. Anxiety or panic attacks
Everyone experiences anxiety sometimes. Some people have physical symptoms, like headaches, nausea, and sweating. The physical symptoms of panic attacks can mimic a heart attack.
Symptoms of a panic attack include:
- a racing heart
- lightheadedness
- chest pain
- nausea
- trouble breathing
- feeling disconnected or dissociated
Some people use deep breathing exercises and grounding techniques to manage anxiety and panic. Others use anti-anxiety medications, like antidepressants or beta blockers.
If you’re not sure whether someone is having a heart attack or a panic attack, it’s best to be cautious and talk with a medical professional. You can learn the difference between a heart attack and panic attack here.
2. Asthma
Asthma is a lung condition that causes inflammation in the airways, making it hard to breathe. Many people have chest discomfort when asthma symptoms flare up.
The symptoms of asthma can include:
- coughing
- wheezing
- trouble breathing
- chest tightness
- shortness of breath
There’s no cure for asthma, but many people can manage their symptoms using treatments like:
- inhaler medication
- tablets
- breathing exercises
- injections
3. Heartburn
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common cause of chest pain. The National Library of Medicine (NLM) states that GERD accounts for 30% of emergency room visits for chest pain.
GERD causes acid reflux or heartburn, which can feel like pressure or burning in the chest. Some people also have wheezing, asthma, or a cough with GERD.
Effective treatments for heartburn can include proton pump inhibitors and H2 blocker therapy.
4. Muscle injuries
According to the NLM, around 28% of emergency room visits for chest pain were explained by musculoskeletal issues. This pain can arise after a recent injury or a new exercise routine.
Chest pain when breathing may suggest a rib fracture or injured muscles around the ribs (intercostal muscles). These issues may resolve on their own, but in some cases, medical attention can help you heal.
A medical professional can recommend whether you need to rest, ice therapy, or physical therapy for your injury.