Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Does Persistent Ache On The Back Indicate?
Question: I am having a constant ache in the center of my back. is this a sign of an impending heart attack?
Brief Answer:
My answer as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome and thank you for asking on HCM!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms are not typical of any cardiac disorder (including coronary artery disease).
A musculo-skeletal pain (including backbone disorder or inflammation) could be the cause of your symptoms.
A lung disorder, gastro-esophageal reflux or an aortic aneurysm can not be excluded either.
If the pain persists, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests:
- a resting ECG
- a chest X ray study
- a cervico-thoracic spine X ray study
- inflammation tests (PCR, sedimentation rate).
If taking ibuprofen relieves your symptoms, it would be more indicative of a musculo-skeletal issue.
A chest CT scan may be needed.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
My answer as follows:
Detailed Answer:
Hello!
Welcome and thank you for asking on HCM!
Regarding your concern, I would explain that your symptoms are not typical of any cardiac disorder (including coronary artery disease).
A musculo-skeletal pain (including backbone disorder or inflammation) could be the cause of your symptoms.
A lung disorder, gastro-esophageal reflux or an aortic aneurysm can not be excluded either.
If the pain persists, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests:
- a resting ECG
- a chest X ray study
- a cervico-thoracic spine X ray study
- inflammation tests (PCR, sedimentation rate).
If taking ibuprofen relieves your symptoms, it would be more indicative of a musculo-skeletal issue.
A chest CT scan may be needed.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
Kind regards,
Dr. Iliri
Note: For further follow-up it is advisable to consult an emergency medicine specialist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
