Senior Care in Weston FL

Chest pain is a very well-known symptom of a heart attack, but did you know that chest pain (even if it is severe) can actually signify many other conditions, not just a heart attack?  While severe chest pain is never something to ignore, the cause of it may not always be related to the heart.  The upper abdomen contains parts of the digestive tract, the lungs, muscles, ribs, and nerves in addition to the heart, any of which could be the source of a senior’s chest pain.  Here is a list of some common causes of chest pain (aside from heart attack). Remember, if your loved one is experiencing chest pain, don’t ignore it even if you don’t believe he or she is having a heart attack, as it could be the result of another serious health condition.

Angina

When there is a blockage in heart blood vessels it causes a reduction in blood flow and oxygen to the heart.  This condition causes pain called angina which feels like pressure or squeezing and can spread to other parts of the body like the arms, shoulders, back, or jaw.  Angina is often triggered by exercise, stress, or excitement and can go away with rest.  Seniors who experience angina should visit their doctor as it can be a sign that they are at risk for a heart attack.

Lung Conditions

When it comes to chest pain in seniors, lung problems can sometimes be the culprit.  Bacterial and viral infections such as pneumonia and pleuritic can cause chest pain in addition to other common infection symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and coughing.  Pulmonary hypertension can also be to blame when it comes to chest pain.  This chest pain will feel much like angina but it is actually caused by elevated blood pressure in the arteries of the lung.  If you suspect your loved one is experiencing a lung problem, they should seek medical attention.

Problems in the Digestive Tract

Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, gas, and ulcers can all be causes of chest pain.  Oftentimes, this pain can be triggered by the food your loved ones eat, so it is important to make note of any foods that they react poorly to so that they can avoid them in the future.  Sever pain should never be ignored, however.  Peptic ulcers which can be very painful are a treatable condition.

Other Causes

Other causes of chest pain include strained muscles in the chest (often caused by coughing), rib injuries, shingles, gallbladder problems, or a hiatal hernia.

If you or a family member near Weston, FL are in need of senior care services, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. Providing Service in Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Delray Beach, Coconut Creek, Taramac, Margate, and surrounding Florida cities.

Source:  http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/whats-causing-my-chest-pain

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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