Chest pain is one of the most alarming symptoms that requires immediate medical attention. However, recognizing the difference between myocardial infarction and intercostal neuralgia can be difficult, since the two conditions have similar presentations.
Cardiologist Olga Perfilieva provided useful guidelines for distinguishing between these diseases.
< br>“With intercostal neuralgia, the pain is acute and intensifies with any movement, coughing or inhaling. In the case of myocardial infarction, pain can radiate to the lower jaw, neck and area between the shoulder blades,” explains the specialist.
In addition, Perfilyeva points out that “the pain during a heart attack is burning, unbearable and lasts at least 15 minutes.”
Also, the patient may experience dizziness, shortness of breath, vomiting and cold sweat – symptoms not typical for intercostal pain. neuralgia. It is important to remember that for any pain in the chest you must call an ambulance. In such situations, delay is extremely dangerous, since myocardial infarction poses a serious threat to life and requires immediate medical intervention, writes Vechernyaya Moskva.
“Intercostal neuralgia has a number of characteristic symptoms that can help in recognizing it. The pain is often described as sharp, shooting or burning and is usually localized along the rib or intercostal space. The pain may be aggravated by body movement, deep breaths, coughing, sneezing, laughing or changing body position,” saysneurologist Alexandra Alyokhina especially for MedicForum.
Other manifestations of neuralgia
Skin sensitivity : In some cases, the skin over the affected area becomes more sensitive. You may feel pain or discomfort when you touch this area.
Tingling or Numbness: You may experience a tingling or numb sensation in the area where the intercostal nerves pass.
< b>Muscle spasms: In some cases, muscle spasms or twitching in the chest area may be observed.
One-sided nature of the pain: Pain is usually felt on one side of the chest, but may radiate to the back, shoulder or abdomen.
Persistence of pain: Pain from intercostal neuralgia is often constant and does not go away on its own.< br>
Increased pain during palpation: When pressing on the intercostal spaces, the pain may intensify.
“Although intercostal neuralgia causes significant discomfort, its symptoms can be mitigated with proper treatment, including drug therapy (painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs), physiotherapy and measures to eliminate the root cause of neuralgia. It is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and selection of the optimal treatment method,” advises Alekhina.
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Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.