What causes chest pain?
Aug 18, 2026
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Chest pain may result from intense emotional fluctuations, excessive physical exertion, cardiac neurosis, intercostal neuralgia, or myocardial ischemia. It can be alleviated through emotional regulation, adequate rest, and targeted medication. However, if chest pain recurs frequently, prompt medical evaluation is essential.
1. Intense emotional fluctuations: Rapid and extreme shifts in mood within a short period can lead to rapid activation of the body’s sympathetic nervous system.
Chest pain may result from intense emotional fluctuations, excessive physical exertion, cardiac neurosis, intercostal neuralgia, or myocardial ischemia. Symptoms can be alleviated through emotional regulation, adequate rest, and targeted pharmacotherapy. However, if chest pain recurs frequently, prompt medical evaluation is essential.
1. Intense Emotional Fluctuations: Rapid and extreme emotional changes within a short period can trigger overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system. This may cause sharp or oppressive chest pain resembling cardiac pain. It is recommended to calm emotions promptly, practice deep breathing for relaxation, and avoid situations likely to provoke emotional agitation.
2. Excessive Physical Exertion: Prolonged overexertion places significant strain on systemic circulation, potentially leading to transient oppressive chest discomfort that typically improves with rest. To prevent recurrence, reduce high-intensity physical labor, balance work and rest appropriately, and ensure sufficient daily rest.
3. Cardiac Neurosis: Chronic stress and poor sleep disrupt autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system, resulting in recurrent sharp or oppressive chest pain, often accompanied by palpitations and chest tightness. Under physician guidance, medications such as oryzanol tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, and Shensong Yangxin Capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.
4. Intercostal Neuralgia: Inflammation and abnormal neural conduction due to irritation of the intercostal nerves cause localized, stabbing chest pain that worsens with changes in body position. Under medical supervision, patients may use mecobalamin tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets to relieve discomfort.
5. Myocardial Ischemia: Reduced coronary blood flow impairs oxygen and nutrient delivery to the myocardium, causing oppressive or constricting chest pain; some individuals may also experience dyspnea and fatigue. As prescribed by a physician, medications such as Wenxin Keli (Stabilizing Heart Granules), isosorbide mononitrate tablets, and Moschus Cardioprotective Pills may help improve symptoms.
In daily life, maintain emotional stability, minimize late-night activity, moderate physical activity intensity, and follow a light, balanced diet to support cardiovascular health and stability.
