What causes occasional discomfort in the heart, and what should be done?

Jun 04, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Occasional discomfort in the heart may be caused by factors such as psychological stress, myocarditis, or pericarditis, and can be improved through general treatment or medication. Besides these causes, it may also result from conditions such as heart valve disease, infective endocarditis, or dilated cardiomyopathy. If symptoms are severe or persist for a prolonged period, prompt medical attention is recommended.

Occasional discomfort in the heart area may be caused by factors such as psychological conditions, myocarditis, or pericarditis, and can be improved through general treatments or medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Psychological Factors

Anxiety, tension, or fear may lead to increased heart rate and arrhythmia, thereby causing discomfort in the cardiac region. Additionally, prolonged work, study, or excessive life stress can result in physical fatigue, potentially leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat. It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits; taking walks outdoors or listening to soothing music can help relieve stress.

2. Myocarditis

Myocarditis is a condition characterized by inflammatory reaction in the myocardial tissue, resulting in impaired heart muscle function. The inflammation damages and kills myocardial cells, affecting the heart's ability to contract and relax properly. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as ribavirin injection or propafenone hydrochloride injection to alleviate symptoms.

3. Pericarditis

Pericarditis refers to inflammation of the pericardial tissue, leading to accumulation of fluid within the pericardial cavity, which compresses the heart and impairs its normal function. This inflammatory response affects surrounding tissues, including the pericardium and the heart's surface, causing constriction and compression of the heart and resulting in discomfort in the chest area. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may be treated with diuretics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as spironolactone tablets or enteric-coated aspirin tablets.

In addition to the above causes, similar symptoms may also arise from heart valve disease, infective endocarditis, or dilated cardiomyopathy. If symptoms are severe or persist for an extended period, prompt medical attention is recommended. A physician will determine the underlying cause through various examinations and assessments and develop an appropriate treatment plan accordingly.


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