What causes dull pain and chest tightness inside the left chest, and what should be done about it?
Dull pain and chest tightness in the left chest may be caused by conditions such as intercostal neuralgia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or myocarditis. Symptoms can be improved with medication. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Intercostal Neuralgia
Intercostal neuralgia is a condition caused by damage to the intercostal nerves. When these nerves become inflamed or irritated by secretions, radiating pain may occur. Patients can take medications such as carbamazepine tablets or acyclovir tablets under medical guidance.
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid and gastric contents flow back into the esophagus. This reflux may lead to esophageal inflammation and spasms, causing symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing. Patients can take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules or rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated capsules under medical supervision.
3. Myocarditis
Myocarditis may damage the heart muscle, leading to reduced cardiac function and structural heart abnormalities, resulting in chest pain and rapid heartbeat. Patients can be treated with medications such as ribavirin injection or amiodarone hydrochloride tablets under a doctor's direction.
In addition to the above causes, similar symptoms may also result from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, constrictive pericarditis, or pulmonary heart disease. If bodily discomfort occurs, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary. It is also important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, engage in appropriate physical exercise, and enhance the body’s resistance to disease.