Experiencing any type of chest pain can cause even the calmest person to panic. Affecting nearly ⅓ of the population, costochondritis is a condition that can cause sharp and persistent chest pain, leading sufferers to believe that they are having a heart attack. Spotting the difference between these conditions is key to determining how and when you should treat them.
But First, What is Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is the inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the chest bone. This inflammation is most often caused by physical strain or chest injuries, but can be the result of a respiration infection or pre-existing and autoimmune conditions, like arthritis, lupus or fibromyalgia.
What is a Heart Attack?
Also known as myocardial infarction, a heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. This blockage prevents the heart from receiving oxygen and nutrients it needs to function as it should. Common causes are buildup of plaque in the arteries, blood clots and conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Similarities
Patients often confuse the two conditions due to their stark similarities. The main commonalities between costochondritis and a heart attack are chest pain and shortness of breath.
Differences
The biggest difference between the two conditions is that one is generally harmless and the other is life-threatening. Being able to spot the key differences between the two will let you know if you need to sit down and take a breather or call an ambulance.
While both lead to chest pain, costochondritis causes sharp, localized pain, while a heart attack causes squeezing or heavy pressure that can spread to other parts of the body and is commonly accompanied by sweating and nausea. People experiencing a heart attack might also get dizzy or pass out.
PSA
If you or someone you love is having a heart attack, please call 911. Should the pain be sharp and momentary, proceed with scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist as soon as possible so they can determine the root cause of your issues, whether that be costochondritis or another heart condition.