Suggest Treatment For Pain And Pressure In The Chest

Posted on Sat, 22 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 Answered on

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : i have chest tightness and pain and all my cardio tests show it is not heart related. I am scheduled to have a CT scan of the abdomen. Can digestive problems really cause chest pain/discomfort

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
It is true that there are many gastroesophageal problems that can result in chest pain. Reflux, ulcers and esophageal spasms may all cause chest pains.
If the CT scan is done with oral and IV contrast it should show up most problems, however, you may need additional testing of the esophagus if the CT does not find the problem.
An upper endoscopy test which could be done by a gastroenterologist might be helpful.
If they also do a CT of the chest, it would give an excellent view of the lungs, chest wall and structures around the heart which can also cause chest pain.
I wish you the best and hope you find the answer and treatment soon,
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (2 hours later)

the gastroenterologist did say he would follow up with an endoscopy if scan does not show anything
I've had a chest xray but not a CT of the chest which sounds like a good idea.
thank you for your response

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (0 minute later)

Brief Answer:
you are welcome

Detailed Answer:
I hope you get some answers soon.
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar