What Might Cause Chest Pain That Radiates to the Shoulder?

Chest pain that spreads to the shoulder is most concerning when it signals a heart attack (also known as a myocardial infarction) or angina. Both conditions occur when the heart muscle doesn't receive enough blood and oxygen, resulting in pain. Because the nerves that carry pain signals from the heart connect to the shoulder area, the discomfort often seems to radiate there. That being said, there are many other causes of chest pain radiating to the shoulder including problems with the muscles and joints in the upper body (musculoskeletal pain), inflammation of the lining around the heart (pericarditis), lung conditions like pneumonia or pulmonary embolism, and even digestive issues such as acid reflux. Anxiety can also trigger symptoms resembling a heart attack. Because chest pain radiating to the shoulder may indicate serious heart problems, it's essential to seek immediate medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.