What should I do for chest and back pain?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
There are many possible causes of chest and back pain, which may result from muscle strain or diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux or ankylosing spondylitis. Appropriate treatment—such as general care, medication, or surgery—should be selected based on the specific underlying cause. Additionally, chest and back pain could also be caused by conditions like coronary heart disease or mediastinal tumors, in which case prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are necessary.
There are many possible causes of chest and back pain, which may result from muscle strain or diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or ankylosing spondylitis. Appropriate treatment—such as general management, medication, or surgery—should be selected based on the specific underlying cause. The details are as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
If a patient has recently engaged in excessive physical labor, the muscles in the chest and back may undergo prolonged and frequent contraction and relaxation, leading to muscle tearing. Muscle strain can cause localized pain and swelling, resulting in chest and back discomfort. Initial management includes adequate rest and protecting the injured muscles to prevent further damage. Cold compresses may also help relieve symptoms. Additionally, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen tablets, ibuprofen capsules, or indomethacin capsules, may be taken as directed by a physician to alleviate pain.
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This condition occurs when contents from the stomach or duodenum flow back into the esophagus, mouth, or lungs, causing discomfort or complications. Common symptoms include acid regurgitation, heartburn, and retrosternal pain. First, patients should correct unhealthy lifestyle habits and avoid foods that reduce lower esophageal sphincter pressure, such as chocolate and coffee. Second, medications that suppress gastric acid production—such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets, or cimetidine tablets—may be taken under medical guidance. For patients who do not respond to drug therapy, treatments such as laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication or endoscopic procedures may be necessary.
3. Ankylosing Spondylitis
This is an autoimmune disease that can affect the sacroiliac joints, spinal joints, and peripheral joints. In severe cases, it may lead to spinal deformity and joint stiffness, manifesting as low back pain, knee joint pain, and other discomforts. While undergoing pharmacological treatment, patients should also maintain regular physical exercise. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or naproxen tablets may be used as prescribed to relieve pain. In some cases, surgical interventions such as total hip replacement or spinal osteotomy may be required.
In addition, chest and back pain could also be caused by other conditions such as coronary artery disease or mediastinal tumors. Therefore, individuals experiencing such symptoms should seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.
