Precordial catch syndrome: This could be why you feel a sudden sharp pain in your chest

Chest pain
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Chest pain
More under this ad

Have you ever felt a sudden sharp stabbing pain in your chest, but it goes away as soon as it comes? Here's the actual reason for this.

Every one of us, at some point in our lives, has experienced a sudden, sharp stabbing pain in our chests. It almost feels as if we are having a heart attack. Even trying to take a long breath results in shooting pain in the chest. However, it disappears completely just after a few minutes or even seconds of light breathing. Have you ever wondered what causes this sensation?

Discover our latest podcast

Stabbing pain

The shooting pain that usually occurs on the left side between your chest and abdomen area is called precordial catch syndrome. The sudden sharp chest ache is the most common symptom of this condition. Unlike a heart attack, the pain from this condition does not spread through your body.

More under this ad
More under this ad
thumbnail
Precordial catch syndrome zf L

The pain gradually goes away as you change your breathing pattern. This is because the precordial catch syndrome is caused due to the way you breathe. The chest pain typically subsides within 30 seconds to 3 minutes. It is possible that some people will feel it for up to 30 minutes. You should feel normal again as soon as the pain subsides.

More under this ad
More under this ad

What causes it?

As per WebMD, the cause of precordial catch syndrome is unknown to doctors.

It could be the result of a pinched nerve or a muscle spasm in the chest lining or chest wall. It has no effect on your heart or lungs and has no connection to those conditions.

Nonetheless, this condition is diagnosed to be completely harmless without any long term effects. The pain most likely occurred due to the incorrect posture, or if you have sudden body movements near your chest after being immobile for so long. Body movements and stretching can help relieve the sudden pain.

More under this ad
More under this ad

Read more:

Medication: Don’t take painkillers with these four drinks, here’s why

Chest acne: Why we get it and how to get rid of it

Chestfeeding: Two UK hospitals are introducing gender inclusive language

More under this ad