8 Causes of Chest Heat That Need to Be Wary of

Illustration (Avicenna Cardiology)

YOGYAKARTA - A hot chest can appear suddenly or slowly, with mild to moderate intensity that disrupts activities. Not a few people consider it trivial, although in certain conditions this complaint needs to be watched out for.

The causes of chest heat are very diverse, ranging from digestive disorders to conditions related to the heart. Reported from various sources, the following are 8 of the causes of chest heat.

Causes of Hot Chest

Some causes of a hot chest are mild and can improve with simple lifestyle changes. However, there are also serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD occurs when stomach acid rises into the esophagus and causes a burning or burning sensation in the chest. This complaint usually appears after a large meal. Other symptoms that often accompany include nausea, dry cough, and a sour throat.

In some people, stomach acid can also cause the mouth to taste bitter and the voice to become hoarse. Risk factors for GERD include obesity, smoking habits, stress, and the consumption of spicy and fatty foods. Although it is not life threatening, GERD that is not treated can cause complications.

Arrhythmia

A hot chest accompanied by irregular heartbeat can be a sign of arrhythmia. This condition occurs due to a disturbance in the electrical system of the heart that regulates the rhythm of the beat. As a result, the heart rate can become too fast, slow, or irregular.

Arrhythmia is more common in the elderly, especially over 65 years of age. Some types of arrhythmia are mild, but there are also high-risk ones that can be life-threatening. Symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, and fainting need to be examined by a doctor immediately.

Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach wall that can cause a hot sensation in the middle to upper chest. This complaint is often felt when the stomach is empty or after eating spicy and sour foods. The discomfort can last a short time or settle for a long time.

The causes of gastritis include bacterial infection Helicobacter pylori, long-term consumption of pain relievers, stress, as well as smoking and drinking habits. If left untreated, gastritis is at risk of causing stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, this complaint should not be ignored.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes that can cause the chest to feel hot and tight. This inflammation causes mucus to accumulate, triggering coughing and respiratory disorders.

The sensation of heat in the chest can last for several days to weeks. In chronic bronchitis, complaints of heat and tightness in the chest can settle for longer.

Heart Disease

Heart disease, such as coronary heart disease or a heart attack, can also cause the chest to feel hot. This complaint often appears suddenly and is accompanied by pain that spreads to the left arm. Additional symptoms such as cold sweat and shortness of breath need to be watched out for.

Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity. Unhealthy lifestyles also increase the risk of heart disorders. If you have any suspicious symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

Anemia

Anemia is one of the causes of feeling hot in the chest in pregnant women. This condition occurs due to low hemoglobin levels so that the supply of oxygen to the body tissues is reduced. Complaints are usually more felt when doing activities or in the last trimester of pregnancy.

Mild anemia is quite common, but moderate to severe anemia can increase the risk of complications. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor. With proper treatment, this condition can generally improve.

Anxiety

Psychological conditions such as anxiety and panic attacks can also trigger a hot chest. When stressed, the body releases the hormone adrenaline which increases the heart rate and muscle tension. As a result, there is a sensation of heat or discomfort in the chest.

This complaint is usually temporary and will subside after the emotional condition improves. Relaxation techniques and stress management can help reduce symptoms. However, if complaints often appear, it is recommended to consult a professional.

Unhealthy Lifestyle

Unhealthy lifestyles are the cause of hot chest that is often ignored. Smoking habits, drinking alcohol, and overeating can trigger an increase in stomach acid. In addition, lying down immediately after eating also aggravates the complaint.

Simple lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms. Adjusting the diet, avoiding trigger foods, and managing stress are highly recommended. With healthy habits, chest complaints of feeling hot can generally be prevented.

This is a discussion of 8 causes of chest heat. Some complaints are mild and can improve with lifestyle changes. However, if symptoms last a long time or are accompanied by danger signs, a medical examination is necessary so that treatment can be carried out properly.

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