Chest pain is a frightening symptom, one that most people associate with heart attacks and cardiovascular problems. It’s no less frightening when it occurs in children. Because children often have a more difficult time quantifying their pain, it can be challenging trying to figure out what is causing the problem. A trip to the doctor may be in order.

What causes chest pain in children?

Fortunately, most causes of children’s chest pain are fairly benign. Cardiovascular problems in kids are generally pretty rare — although you do not want to ignore symptoms that point in that direction! — and most chest pain is caused by irritations, injuries or infections. Sometimes pain in the chest is “transferred” from another area, like the abdomen, making the cause somewhat harder to pin down.

Conditions that can cause chest pain:

– Costochondritis

This common condition occurs when the joint between the ribs and the breastbone becomes inflamed. Although most common in teenagers, the condition can occur at any age. It’s usually caused by a viral illness and the coughing that occurs with it. The hallmark of this condition is pain that occurs with deep inhalations and exhalations. If pain is occurring with regular breathing, a more serious condition may the culprit and will require immediate medical attention.

– Injuries to the chest

If your kids play sports, injuries to the chest are a strong possibility. Everything from strained rib muscles to broken collarbones can cause chest pain. These can be caused by direct blows to the chest, for example, being hit with a ball or colliding with another player. Other possible causes are heavy lifting and hard aerobic exercise. Trips and falls can break bones. If you know of an injury, it’s important to have your child checked out for any broken bones.

– Stress

Kids can get stressed, just like adults. In some kids, especially those with conditions like autism or mood disorders, stress and anxiety is practically a way of life. This can often translate to chest pain. Chest pain brought on by stress is usually dull and diffuse, but becomes worse with increasing stress. Since chest pain can sometimes be the source of stress, it’s important to determine the exact cause.

– Asthma

If chest pain is accompanied by wheezing or coughing, reactive airway disease may be the cause. If your child appears to be having difficulty breathing or the skin between the ribs is pulling in, known as retracting, a trip to the emergency room is in order.

– Acid reflux

One of the most common culprits of chest pain in children is acid reflux. This occurs when the muscle at the connection of the esophagus and stomach isn’t working quite right and stomach contents, including acid, back up into the esophagus. Pain associated with acid reflux is often sharp and can be described as burning. Other symptoms associated with acid reflux include belching, vomiting and inconsolable crying.

If you suspect acid reflex in your child, visit Reflux Remedy for more information.