Most causes of chest pain in children are benign and self-limiting, such as musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal conditions. It is rarely a symptom of a serious underlying condition.
Chest pain is not uncommon in children. It is common in emergency and outpatient settings and accounts for
Most of these cases are benign and do not stem from heart problems.
This article explores common conditions that cause chest pain in children and when chest pain can be a sign of something more serious.
Research from 2020 estimates that around
In a 2020 study analyzing chest pain in children in Iran, nearly half have an unknown cause.
A
These results are similar to a 2022 study that found the most common cause of chest pain among children in Japan was idiopathic.
Other related symptoms
Some children may describe their chest pain as a sharp, stabbing pain during rest and exercise. The pain may last seconds to minutes. Episodes happen now and then and get better on their own.
Treatment
Experts do not recommend medications for idiopathic chest pain. Gentle massage and heat may improve symptoms.
In the studies above, musculoskeletal-related concerns were the second most common cause of chest pain in children. However, it was the leading cause of pediatric chest pain in a
Some musculoskeletal conditions that may cause chest pain
Other related symptoms
The following symptoms may accompany musculoskeletal-related chest pain:
- chest wall tenderness
- pain aggravated by breathing
- pain upon movement (muscle strain)
- tenderness when touching the costochondral junction, which is the connection between the ribs and supporting cartilage
Treatment
Doctors recommend rest for exercise-related pain. Parents and caregivers may also give ibuprofen (Advil) for pain relief and apply heat and massage.
Doctors may also prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics when necessary.
Psychological causes, such as anxiety and panic disorders, may
- depression
- conversion disorder
- emotional outbursts
Learn more about chest pain and anxiety here.
Other related symptoms
Emotional or mental triggers
Treatment
Talk therapy, hypnosis, and coping skills training may help improve the underlying psychological cause of chest pain.
Gastrointestinal problems are also
- gastritis
- gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- esophagitis
- constipation
- pancreatitis
- gastric ulcer
- biliary disease
- esophageal hiatal hernia
Other related symptoms
Some of the symptoms of chest pain associated with gastrointestinal causes include:
- vomiting
- heartburn
- indigestion
Treatment
A doctor may prescribe proton pump inhibitors to treat acid reflux. Acid reflux is one of the most common causes of noncardiac chest pain.
Chest pain is one of the
Respiratory diseases that may cause chest pain
Other related symptoms
Other common symptoms include shortness of breath and cough.
Treatment
Some lung conditions resolve on their own. Others may require antibiotics, other medications, or interventions.
Less than
Causes of cardiac chest pain
- arrhythmia
- inflammatory diseases
- structural abnormalities
- coronary artery diseases
The
Other related symptoms
Chest tightness and discomfort are the
- abnormal heart sounds
- arrhythmia
- rapid heart rate
- edema (swelling) in the ankles, feet, legs, hands, and arms
- hepatomegaly (enlarged liver)
Treatment
Doctors may prescribe medications to control and relieve chest pain. They may also prescribe other medications to manage it long term.
Some of these medications
A caregiver should seek medical attention if the child with chest pain:
- has heart disease
- shows breathing difficulty
- experiences pain with deep breathing
- has a rapid heartbeat
- looks pale and sick
- experienced a direct blow to the chest
Since there are many potential causes of chest pain in children, doctors use a variety of methods to diagnose the cause. A doctor will likely take the child’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and order tests.
The doctor may ask about the following:
- site of pain
- severity of pain
- how long the pain lasts
- associated symptoms
- triggers
They may also ask about any family history of cardiac-related conditions, recent trauma, and medication history.
Some imaging tests a doctor may order include:
- chest X-ray
- electrocardiogram (EKG)
- echocardiogram
Below are some frequently asked questions about chest pain in children.
What would cause a child’s chest to hurt?
The most common cause of chest pain in children is idiopathic (unknown cause). Other potential causes are:
- musculoskeletal
- gastrointestinal
- respiratory
- psychological
- cardiac
How do I know if my child’s chest pain is serious?
Chest pain is considered serious when it occurs alongside these symptoms:
- severe trouble breathing
- fainting
- extreme weakness
- bluish lips or face
If a child has chest pain and any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
Is it normal for a child to have chest pain?
Chest pain is a fairly common complaint among children. However, a caregiver should consult a doctor if the child has any other symptoms that accompany the chest pain.
Can children have chest pain due to a heart attack?
Children can experience chest pain from heart problems such as a heart attack, but this is rare. Heart problems account for
Chest pain is a common complaint among children. Many parents and caregivers may associate it with a heart condition, but cardiac-related causes are uncommon.
The most common cause of chest pain in children is idiopathic (unknown cause).
Other potential causes include musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and respiratory issues. It is essential to consult a doctor if a child is experiencing chest pain to learn its underlying cause and the best course of treatment.