brysttryk

Brysttryk is a Danish term for a sensation of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can arise from a range of conditions, from benign muscular strain to serious cardiovascular disease.

Cardiac causes include angina pectoris and myocardial infarction, which may present as exertional chest pressure that can radiate to the arm, neck, jaw, or back and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or dizziness. Non-cardiac sources include gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal spasm, musculoskeletal strain or costochondritis, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and pneumothorax, as well as anxiety or panic disorders.

Evaluation starts with a description of timing, duration, triggers, and associated symptoms, alongside risk factors such as age, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. A clinician may perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests (troponin), chest imaging, and referrals to further testing as needed.

Chest pressure requires prompt medical assessment when new, severe, or accompanied by shortness of breath, fainting, or radiation to the arm or jaw. Treatment depends on the cause and may include emergency care for cardiac conditions, medications for pain relief or blood pressure control, and lifestyle changes for non-cardiac causes.

Prevention focuses on addressing risk factors (smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes) and treating underlying conditions. Most non-cardiac chest pressures resolve with appropriate care, while cardiac causes require urgent treatment to reduce risks.