What Other Conditions Could Cause Chest Pain Besides Heart Issues?

Many conditions besides heart problems can cause chest pain. Lung conditions are common causes, including pneumonia (a lung infection), pleurisy (inflammation of lung tissues), and pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). Digestive issues frequently cause chest pain as well. These include acid reflux or GERD—where stomach acid flows back into the food pipe—and esophageal spasms, which are sudden contractions in the esophagus. Musculoskeletal problems can also trigger chest pain, such as costochondritis (inflammation where ribs meet the breastbone) or injuries to the chest wall's muscles, ribs, or joints. Psychological factors like anxiety and panic attacks can also cause genuine chest discomfort. Since these various conditions often share similar symptoms, it's essential to get a proper medical evaluation to determine the exact cause of chest pain.