What Causes Persistent Stabbing Pain In Chest?

Posted on Wed, 9 Dec 2015

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

Wed, 9 Dec 2015 Answered on

Mon, 28 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Doctor,

I have been experiencing slight stabbing pain in the upper chest close to shoulder. This is persistent and has been coming and going often since last one week.

Today I got the ECG test done and attached is the report. Would be great if you can tell me if the report shows any abnormalities and is there anything you suggest to get it done.

Best regards,
Prithvi

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
NORMAL

Detailed Answer:
Hi friend
Welcome to Health Care Magic

The ECG is normal
There is no obvious abnormality

The compliant is also not suggestive of heart disease…. – pain from the heart is oppressing, in central chest (and left), worse on effort, relieved by rest, may radiate to shoulders and arms, associated with sweating and so on.

Follow up with your doctor
If the pain is persistent or progressive have Stress ECG, X-ray chest and blood tests – more to rule out, rather than rule in!

Good luck
God bless you

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (6 hours later)

Hi Doctor,

Thank you so much for the details.

I consulted cardiologist today evening and he too said ECG looks fine. He then asked me to get the Toponin test done which I did and the results came out normal.

He said the pain can be due to injury which appears to be due to coughing (I had viral fever and cough week back).

As you suggested, I will get the Stress ECG done at the earliest. If there is any other tests that you want me to get it done, please let me know.

Best regards,
Prithvi

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Reassurung -

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Normal troponin is reassuring and rules out recent heart attack

Go for Exercise ECG (TMT or Tread Mill Test)) and Lipid profile (Cholesterol etc.) – for reassurance.
Nothing else is necessary

Practice good Life Style Changes - Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and high fat diet / Do regular exercise

Regards

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

Follow up: Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (28 hours later)

Sure doctor. I have taken an appointment for tread mill test for Monday and will also get the lipid profile test done as well.

Thank you so much and really appreciate your help.

Best wishes
Prithvi

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Great

Detailed Answer:
These tests are done to rule out rather than rule in ...
You are young and the chance of heart problem is NOT likely
Lipid will give a clue to diet and life style changes, if anything is needed
If all is well, ignore the issue and enjoy life

Regards

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