In the term Precordial Catch Syndrome, Precordial refers to pain at the Precordium which is a term to describe the area of the chest wall around your heart. This syndrome represents a short, suddenly appearing, and sharp pain in this area. The pain can be intense and extreme but it goes away almost immediately. (1)
Dr. Tim Tiutan, MD Internal Medicine, took his Instagram to speak about this syndrome.
In the video, Dr. Tim Tuitan shared how the syndrome is not a serious condition when seen in younger adults and can be attributed to muscle spasms. however, he clarified that elderly patients with such symptoms must always make sure to rule out a heart problem.
Symptoms include:
Sudden chest pain described as a stabbing pain
Pain localized at a point and does not radiate anywhere else
Occurs during a slouched or poor posture
Worsens when taking in deep breaths
Lasts from 30 seconds to 3 minutes (2)
Whom does Precordial Catch Syndrome affect?
Precordial Catch Syndrome occurs more often in older children, teenagers, and young adults and goes away in the early to mid-20s.
However, In an older population chest pain should not be overlooked as it could be a sign of heart-related problems like heart attack.(1)
Chest pain in a heart attack may feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing or aching. Along with pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or sometimes the upper belly. these are not noted in Precordial Catch Syndrome. (4)
Causes
Pinched nerves
Muscle spasms around the pleura or the ribs
Growth spurt (1)
Treatment and Management
Since the condition is not serious, there is no treatment necessary. However, To relieve the pain change in posture by standing up or sitting straight can provide relief. Deep breaths are also helpful though they can be painful. (3)
Prevention
Adapt proper posture and Sit in an upright position.
Trying yoga has also been advised in these cases.
If you have sharp chest pain that lasts longer or affects the other parts of your body, approach a healthcare provider to rule out any heart conditions. (1)
Precordial Catch Syndrome is a common cause of sudden, sharp chest pain that typically lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes and then vanishes without any long-term effects, It often occurs at rest and is believed to be caused by irritation of the nerves or muscle spasms in the chest wall. Although it can be alarming, it is harmless and does not require treatment. However, if chest pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it's important to see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
References:
“Precordial Catch Syndrome.” Cleveland Clinic, n.d. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/precordial-catch-syndrome.
Fields, Lisa. “What Is Precordial Catch Syndrome?” WebMD, June 22, 2024. https://www.webmd.com/lung/precordial-catch-syndrome.
Mayo Clinic. “Heart attack - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic,” October 9, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-attack/symptoms-causes/syc-20373106.
MSM
