Menthol sensation in the chest: possible causes
A burning or menthol sensation in the chest can be a worrying symptom, but understanding the potential causes can help alleviate concerns. This article explores the common conditions that may lead to such sensations and the accompanying symptoms to watch out for.
A 2020 study revealed that chest pain, often accompanied by a burning feeling, is a leading reason for individuals with anxiety and depression to seek emergency care [1]. However, the sensation can also be a symptom of various physical conditions, such as lung infections, heart issues, and acid reflux.
Lung Infections
Infections like bronchitis, pneumonia, and the common cold can cause a burning menthol sensation in the chest, often accompanied by coughing with or without mucus, tiredness, headache, sore throat, and mild body aches [2].
Heart Attacks and Cardiac Issues
A burning sensation in the chest may also signal a heart attack, especially if accompanied by pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the center of the chest, pain radiating to the left arm, both arms, neck, jaw, back, or upper abdomen, shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and sweating or lightheadedness [3]. This heaviness or burning is different from typical heartburn and represents cardiac ischemia symptoms.
Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) make up 50-60% of chest pain cases not related to the heart [4]. The burning sensation, commonly known as heartburn, is often accompanied by regurgitation of stomach acid, sore throat or throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or changes in voice, and excessive burping [5].
Seeking Medical Help
If you are experiencing a burning chest sensation, it's essential to seek medical help, especially if accompanied by fainting, sudden dizziness and weakness, chest or upper abdominal pressure or pain for 2 minutes or more, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, difficulty speaking, confusion or unusual behavior, sudden or severe pain, or unusual abdominal pain [6].
A doctor can help diagnose the cause and recommend a treatment plan, which may involve over-the-counter and prescription medications such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors [7]. Lifestyle changes, such as reaching or maintaining a moderate weight, elevating the head when sleeping, quitting smoking, and eating a balanced, nutritious diet, may also help manage symptoms of acid reflux and GERD [8].
Esophagitis and Peptic Ulcers
Esophagitis, an irritation or inflammation of the esophagus lining, is often caused by acid reflux and can cause a menthol or burning sensation in the chest. Peptic ulcers, open sores in the gastrointestinal tract lining, can also cause burning chest pain [9].
In summary, a burning chest sensation can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from common lung infections to serious heart issues or acid reflux. It is crucial to seek medical help if experiencing any concerning symptoms, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms of acid reflux and GERD.
- Atopic dermatitis, a type of skin condition, can exhibited with symptoms such as a rash on the skin and itching, but it can also lead to chest pain due to scratching and inflammation in severe cases.
- Depression is a mental health disorder that can manifest with chest pain as a symptom, often due to the emotional stress and anxiety associated with the condition.
- AQ, or air quality, can indirectly affect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath if exposed to poor air quality for extended periods.
- Diabetes can sometimes lead to heartburn and chest pain due to improper blood sugar control, which enhances acid reflux.
- Chronic respiratory conditions like GERD and asthma may result in chest pain and excessive mucus production in the airways.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its related symptoms, such as chest pain and heartburn, can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with chronic diseases like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
- Workplace-wellness programs focusing on health and wellness, fitness, and exercise can help prevent and manage chest pain related to chronic diseases and various physical conditions.
- Following a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like GERD and acid reflux, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
- Reflux, when acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus, can lead to eye-health problems due to the irritation in the eye caused by stomach acid.
- Hearing loss, a neurological disorder, can be predicted by the presence of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders, which may cause chest pain as a secondary symptom.
- It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for predictive screening and therapies and treatments to manage chest pain related to chronic diseases or hearing loss.
- In severe cases, unmanaged chest pain may lead to heart attacks, which can result in serious long-term health consequences.
- Scientists have been studying the potential benefits of using CBD (Cannabidiol) to help manage symptoms of chronic diseases, such as neuropathic pain, neurological disorders, and skin conditions.
- Sports activities and fitness-and-exercise routines can help improve cardiovascular health, boost mental health, and help manage symptoms of conditions like diabetes, COPD, and GERD.
- Smoking, a known risk factor for various chronic diseases, can cause chest pain due to the harmful effects it has on the respiratory system and cardiovascular health.
- Sports betting may negatively impact mental health and contribute to increased stress levels, which may exacerbate chest pain symptoms in individuals suffering from anxiety or depression.
- Eye-health screenings, regular medical check-ups, skin-care routines, and maintaining a balanced diet are all crucial aspects of maintaining overall health and wellness, and helping prevent and manage symptoms of various conditions, including those causing chest pain.
