Sharp Pain In Chest Region - Precordial Catch Syndrome

Precordial catch syndrome (Texidor’s Twinge):

Precordial catch syndrome is a common and harmless cause of chest pain that often affects older children, teens, and young adults. It is characterized by a sudden, sharp pain in the chest, which can feel intense and alarming, as if someone has stabbed a knife into your chest. However, this pain disappears almost as quickly as it starts and does not cause any lasting changes or problems in the body.

Key Points:

1. Sudden and Sharp Pain: The pain is sudden and feels sharp, typically occurring on the left side of the chest.

2. Short Duration: The pain lasts only for a short time, often just a few seconds to a couple of minutes.

3. Benign Condition: Despite its intensity, precordial catch syndrome is harmless and does not indicate any serious heart or lung problems.

4. No Lasting Effects: There are no lasting changes or damage to the body from this condition.

5. Common in Youth: It is most commonly seen in older children, teens, and young adults.

Because the pain can be intense and sudden, it often leads to unnecessary worry, medical tests, and specialist referrals. However, understanding that it is a benign and temporary condition can help reduce anxiety and avoid unnecessary medical interventions.

Causes:

The exact cause of precordial catch syndrome is unknown, but it may result from a pinched nerve or a muscle spasm in the inner lining of the chest or chest wall. It is not related to heart or lung issues and does not affect these organs. In some people, it may occur during growth spurts or be triggered by stress and anxiety. The pain may also come from the chest wall, ribs, or cartilage. Despite its intensity, precordial catch syndrome is a benign condition with no serious underlying heart or lung problems.

How do I Know It’s Not Something Serious?

Your healthcare provider should carefully review your symptoms and consider other possible conditions. Viral infections, congenital heart valve issues, and inflammation of the esophagus or stomach can cause similar symptoms but usually come with other signs like fever, cough, or reactions to certain foods or activities. The provider should examine your chest by looking at it, feeling for tenderness, and listening to your heart and lungs.

Are tests needed?

Further tests are only necessary if the provider suspects another issue. For instance, if they hear a heart murmur or other unusual sound, they might order an echocardiogram (ultrasound images) or a chest X-ray.