Stress and Chest Pain: Causes, Risks & When to Seek Help

Chronic stress can cause chest pain, however some chest pain indicates heart disease. Any chest pain needs immediate medical attention. Do not ignore severe chest pains.

Immune Depression

• Fluid in the lungs causes chest pain.

  Chronically stressed adrenal glands suppress immune function and contribute to pain from bronchial inflammations like the flu or pneumonia.

Trauma-related Stress

• Trauma from auto accidents, surgeries, or physical abuse can linger for years after an event. Triggers of trauma-related stress can cause chest pain. This chest pain is linked to post traumatic stress disorder.

Angina

• The American Heart Association says that "angina is chest pain and can include jaw, shoulder, back and arm discomfort." Chest pain with angina is a symptom of plaque in the arteries of your heart. Ask your physician about treatment for angina.

Adrenal Stress

• Adrenal glands release epinephrine, dopamine, norepinephrine, and cortisol hormones to respond to stress. Overproduction of these hormones often has a detrimental effect on the heart and blood vessels.

Emotional Stress

• Your body can experience elevated stress hormones for years after a traumatic event. Simple lifestyle changes to counteract stress include meditation, music, and relaxing, along with walking and exercise.