Introduction Not all chest pain comes from the heart. In fact, many people experience recurrent chest discomfort unrelated to heart disease, known as non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP). This type of pain can be caused by gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, lung-related, or psychological conditions. While it is not directly linked to blocked arteries, recurrent non-cardiac chest pain can still be distressing and impact daily life. Proper evaluation and management are essential to improve the quality of life and rule out serious conditions. Common Causes of Non-Cardiac Chest Pain 1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) 2. Esophageal Disorders 3. Musculoskeletal Conditions 4. Pulmonary Causes 5.…
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Introduction Chest pain is often immediately associated with heart problems, but in many cases, it has non-cardiac causes. These conditions may mimic the symptoms of a heart attack, leading to anxiety and emergency visits, yet they are not directly related to the heart. Understanding the most common non-cardiac causes of chest pain—such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), costochondritis, and anxiety—can help individuals recognize patterns, seek appropriate treatment, and reduce unnecessary worry. 1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Symptoms Why It Mimics Heart Pain The esophagus is located close…