Chest pressure frequently is associated with heart diseases and abnormalities. While heart conditions are a common cause of chest pressure, problems with other organs, such as the lungs, can cause pressure and fullness in the chest as well. Many of the conditions that cause chest pressure are serious, so contact your doctor if you experience any feelings of pressure or pain in the chest.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disorder characterized by the narrowing of the airways and the excess production and buildup of mucus. In people with asthma, mucus accumulates in the narrow airways and obstructs the flow of air, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and chest pressure. Common asthma attack triggers include pet hair, dust, cold weather, airborne allergens, increased physical activity, mold, pollen and respiratory infections, according to MedlinePlus. Asthma is usually treated with a combination of rapid-acting inhalers and long-term medications. Both medications consist of a combination of anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators, but rapid-acting medications are used during an asthma attack to relieve symptoms quickly. Long-term medications are taken daily as a means of disease control.
Coronary Artery Disease
The coronary arteries are the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen-rich blood after it leaves the lungs. Coronary artery disease occurs as a result of the gradual accumulation of plaque on the arterial walls, a condition called atherosclerosis. The buildup of plaque causes the arteries to narrow, which results in a partial or complete obstruction of blood flow to the heart. Atherosclerosis can develop as a result of smoking, high triglycerides, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and chronic high blood glucose associated with diabetes. The most common symptom of coronary artery disease is angina, which is chest pressure and pain that also may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw and back, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Shortness of breath is another common symptom. Treatment for coronary artery disease consists of a combination of medications, lifestyle changes and in severe cases, medical procedures to correct the blockage in the coronary arteries.
Heart Attack
A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, occurs when a blood clot obstructs the one or more of the coronary arteries, completely stopping the flow of blood to the heart. A heart may occur as a result of coronary artery disease, a coronary artery spasm or drug use. A common symptom of a heart attack is heavy chest pressure accompanied by pain that radiates to the shoulder, arm, back or face. Those suffering from a heart attack may also experience abdominal pain, shortness of breath, increased sweating, a sense of impending doom, fainting, nausea and vomiting, according to MayoClinic.com. A heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization and treatment.
