Chest pain and abdominal pain are two of the most common—and concerning—reasons people visit the doctor. Both can feel similar and sometimes overlap, but the causes and treatments may be very different. Knowing how to recognize the difference can help you decide when to seek care quickly.

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Causes of Chest Pain

Chest pain is often related to the heart, lungs, or muscles in the chest wall. Common causes include:

• Cardiac issues such as angina or heart attack

• Lung problems including pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or pleurisy

• Musculoskeletal pain from strained chest muscles or rib inflammation

• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which can sometimes mimic heart-related pain

Chest pain is especially concerning when it comes with shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw. In these cases, seek emergency care immediately.

Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is more often related to the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. Some common causes include:

• Gastritis or ulcers

• Gallstones

• Appendicitis

• Liver or pancreatic issues

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Abdominal pain may also cause bloating, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits.

How to Distinguish Between the Two

While chest and abdominal pain can sometimes overlap (for example, acid reflux may feel like chest pain), there are a few general guidelines:

• Location: Chest pain is usually above the diaphragm, while abdominal pain is below it.

• Associated symptoms: Chest pain linked to exertion or radiating to the arm or jaw often suggests a heart cause. Abdominal pain with nausea, diarrhea, or bloating often suggests digestive causes.

• Response to food or rest: Pain triggered or relieved by eating may point to the stomach or gallbladder.

However, it is not always straightforward—sometimes only medical testing can clarify the cause.

Diagnostic Tests at 14 Street Medical Arts

At 14 Street Medical Arts, we provide a wide range of in-office diagnostic tests to help distinguish between chest pain and abdominal pain:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) to measure heart rhythm and detect cardiac issues

• Echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart to check for structural or functional problems

• Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) to evaluate lung health if breathing issues are suspected

• Chest X-ray to assess lungs, heart, and chest wall

• Abdominal Ultrasound to evaluate liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys

• Laboratory blood tests to help identify infection, inflammation, or organ dysfunction

Our team works quickly to identify the source of pain and ensure you receive the right treatment without delay.

Why Choose 14 Street Medical Arts

• Comprehensive testing in one location

• Experienced board-certified providers

• State-of-the-art diagnostic technology

• Convenient appointments

• We accept most major insurances, including Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Healthfirst, Fidelis, Medicare, Medicaid, 1199, Molina, Cigna, Oxford, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more

Your health and safety are our top priority. If you are experiencing chest pain or abdominal pain, do not wait—accurate diagnosis can make all the difference.

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Visit us at 14 Street Medical Arts or call us today to schedule an appointment.