What causes stabbing chest pain in middle-aged and elderly people, and what should be done about it?
Jun 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Chest pain in middle-aged and elderly individuals may be caused by conditions such as cardiac neurosis, intercostal neuralgia, or pulmonary heart disease. Treatment options include general management, medication, and surgery. In addition to these relatively common causes, other possible diseases—such as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease and myocardial infarction—should also be considered. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.
Stabbing chest pain in middle-aged and elderly individuals may be caused by conditions such as cardiac neurosis, intercostal neuralgia, or pulmonary heart disease. Treatment options include general management, medication, and surgery. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Cardiac Neurosis
Cardiac neurosis is a psychological disorder in which myocardial tension and vasoconstriction caused by mental stress lead to insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle, resulting in chest pain. Patients should maintain a relaxed mood, avoid anxiety and depression, and engage in appropriate physical activity to relieve stress.
2. Intercostal Neuralgia
Intercostal neuralgia occurs when nerves between the ribs are irritated or damaged, causing chest pain and discomfort. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as mecobalamin tablets or acyclovir tablets to alleviate symptoms.
3. Pulmonary Heart Disease
Pulmonary heart disease refers to heart disease secondary to lung disorders. Increased pulmonary vascular resistance leads to increased cardiac load and myocardial hypoxia, causing symptoms such as localized stabbing pain and shortness of breath. Treatments may include procedures like thrombectomy or placement of an inferior vena cava filter.
In addition to the above relatively common causes, other possible conditions include coronary atherosclerotic heart disease and myocardial infarction. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and should not self-medicate, to avoid delaying proper treatment.
