Chest Pain in Children: When Should You Worry?

When your child complains of chest pain, it’s natural to be concerned. Your first thought might be that something is wrong with their heart — but the good news is that in most cases, chest pain in children isn’t a sign of a heart condition at all.

A few of the most common causes of chest pain in children include muscle strain, inflammation of the chest wall, and respiratory issues like asthma. However, it’s important to learn to recognize the signs of something more serious, and our team at Cardiology Care For Children is here to help.

Devyani Chowdhury, MD, MHA, specializes in diagnosing and treating chest pain in children. Here’s what you should know about a few of the more common causes and when your child’s symptoms necessitate a cardiology evaluation.

Common causes of chest pain in children

Most of the time, a child’s chest pain isn’t caused by a heart-related condition. Some of the most common causes of chest pain in children are: 

Muscle strain

Children are active, and muscle strain is a frequent cause of chest pain — particularly in kids who’ve recently engaged in strenuous physical activity. This type of pain is often localized in or near the chest, and it may worsen with movement or deep breathing.

Although uncomfortable, muscle strain is usually harmless. It typically resolves on its own with rest.

Costochondritis

Another common cause of chest pain in children is costochondritis, an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. This condition can cause sharp, stabbing pain that might be mistaken for something more serious.

However, costochondritis is typically benign and responds to treatment with anti-inflammatory medications and rest.

Respiratory issues

Conditions like asthma can also cause chest pain, particularly during or after physical activity. The pain usually comes with other symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.

If your child has asthma, it's important to proactively manage their condition. Working with their pediatrician to develop a treatment plan helps prevent flare-ups that could lead to chest discomfort and more serious asthma complications.

When to seek medical care for your child’s chest pain

Many common causes of chest pain aren’t serious, but you should always schedule a doctor’s appointment if your child complains of chest pain and it persists or worsens over time.

Even if the pain isn’t severe, it’s worth investigating, particularly if you have a family history of heart conditions. Chest pain is the most common symptom of many pediatric heart conditions, and early intervention can be key in preventing potential issues from becoming more serious.

When to seek immediate medical attention

Specific symptoms associated with chest pain require medical attention immediately. If your child experiences any of the following along with chest pain, seek emergency care right away:

• Fever or sweating, which could be signs of an infection or other serious condition
• Difficulty breathing, including labored or rapid breathing
• Fast heart rate
• Sudden, severe chest pain
• Paleness
• Ripping sensation in their chest

Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating pediatric heart conditions, and we’re here to help you find the answers you need. We start by reviewing your child’s medical history and doing a thorough exam. We have in-office diagnostic testing, including electrocardiogram and echocardiogram.

The right treatment depends on your child’s diagnosis, and we partner with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan that fits their specific needs. 

Learn more with a consultation at Cardiology Care for Children — we’re located in Lancaster, Mifflinburg, and Strasburg, Pennsylvania, and Topeka, Indiana. Call the office nearest you to get started today.