Contents
Are You at Risk for Esophageal Chest Pain?
Published: Oct 20, 2023
Understanding the risk factors for esophageal chest pain can help you take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and complications.
Lifestyle and Dietary Risk Factors
Certain lifestyle choices can increase the risk of esophageal chest pain. Smoking, obesity, and a diet high in fatty foods are known contributors to GERD, a common cause of this pain. Making healthier lifestyle and dietary choices can significantly reduce these risks.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Some medical conditions, like hiatal hernias, and certain medications can increase the risk of esophageal chest pain. Drugs like aspirin and NSAIDs can irritate the esophagus, leading to discomfort. Understanding these risks can help in managing and preventing pain.
Stress and Psychological Factors
Stress and anxiety can also contribute to esophageal chest pain. These factors can exacerbate GERD and other esophageal conditions, making pain more frequent. Learning stress management techniques can help mitigate these effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smoking and obesity increase esophageal chest pain risk.
Yes, medications like aspirin can irritate the esophagus.
Yes, stress can worsen esophageal conditions and pain.
The Bottom Line
Recognizing and addressing risk factors can help prevent esophageal chest pain.
References
- Hobson AR, Furlong PL, Sarkar S, et al. Neurophysiologic assessment of esophageal sensory processing in noncardiac chest pain. Gastroenterology 2006; 130:80.
- Ford AC, Suares NC, Talley NJ. Meta-analysis: the epidemiology of noncardiac chest pain in the community. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2011; 34:172.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?