Chest pain is pain or discomfort that occurs anywhere along the front of the body between the neck and upper abdomen. It may be caused by any organ or tissue located in the chest, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, ribs, sternum (breastbone), muscles, tendons, nerves and blood vessels.

Chest pain is a common complaint. More than 5 percent of emergency room visits are due to chest pain, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated. Many people seek emergency treatment for their chest pain because they associate the symptom with heart attack and other cardiac disorders. Although chest pain may be due to cardiac problems, most cases are due to noncardiac causes.

In addition to problems with organs and tissues in the chest, chest pain may be caused by conditions affecting the digestive tract. A number of psychological disorders can also trigger chest pain, such as anxiety and panic disorders.

Chest pain can be caused by something as simple as heartburn or as severe as a life-threatening heart attack. As a result, all forms of chest pain should be reported to a physician.

Patients should seek immediate emergency medical treatment when:

• There is a sudden sensation of crushing, squeezing, tightening or pressure in the chest
  
  
• The pain radiates to the jaw, neck, arm or between the shoulder blades
  
  
• The pain is more intense, triggered by less strenuous activity or longer lasting than usual (in patients diagnosed with angina)
  
  
• Symptoms occur during periods of rest (in patients diagnosed with angina)
  
  
• The pain is accompanied by nausea, dizziness, sweating, fatigue, a racing heart or shortness of breath

In other cases, patients should contact their physician when pain:

• Is accompanied by fever
  
  
• Is accompanied by a cough that produces yellow-green phlegm
  
  
• Lasts longer than three to five day