There are many possible causes of chest pain. Doctors often consider the origination of the chest pain as a way to diagnose the route cause. Most symptoms of right chest pain are typically attributed to muscle pulls, rib injuries, liver issues or pneumonia. It is rare for a cardiac arrest to start with chest pain in this area of the body. Other afflictions such as heartburn, pneumonia, and liver disease also can cause pain in the right side of the chest.
Pneumonia is often the cause of right chest pain. This pain is attributed to fluid within the lungs, which causes an individual to have breathing trouble. Pneumonia is a serious infection that causes the lungs to fill with liquid. If left untreated it can lead to death or long term injury of the lungs.
Many liver problems can produce symptoms of right chest pain. This is typically predominant in the lower right side of the ribs. Liver damage can be caused by excessive drinking or hepatitis. Pain in this area of the body should be evaluated by a medical professional. He can determine the seriousness of the problem through x-rays of the chest area and special blood tests.
A rib injury or muscle pull can occur by falling or twisting in an awkward position. This type of injury is more prevalent in older individuals, who are less flexible. A rib injury is one of the most common causes of pain in the right side of the chest. If the rib area is bruised or pulled, this pain can last for four to six weeks. Typically treatments for this type of injury include daily ice packs.
Fibromyalgia is a disease that produces serious pain in the joints and bone area of individuals. This can often be attributed to chest pain. Fibromyalgia causes the inflammation of cartilage within the rib area and other joints. This can cause excessive pain and suffering in the right chest area. Most individuals that suffer from this disease take pain medicine on a daily basis to reduce symptoms.
Heartburn is chest pain that is associated with gas and indigestion. This type of chest pain can move to either side of the body. Most heartburn sufferers will feel discomfort within an hour of eating. This can be reduced with special medicines or antacid treatments.
A gallbladder attack can be the cause of right chest pain. The gallbladder is located on the right side of the stomach below the rib cage. When an individual has a gallbladder attack, he may have difficulty breathing. This is often diagnosed because of sensitivity within the gallbladder area.