Chest Pain in Children and Teenagers

Also known as: costochondritis, chest wall pain

What is chest pain in children and teenagers?

When a child or a teenager experiences sharp, stabbing chest pain, it's a source of major alarm for both them and their parents. However, in the vast majority of cases, the pain is not related to heart problems or a heart attack. Rather, it's “chest wall pain” that comes from the muscles, ribs or joints within the chest area.

What causes chest pain in children and teenagers?

This chest wall pain can be related to an injury to the bones, muscles or joints in the area. Inflammation due to illness or asthma can also cause chest pain.

What are the symptoms of chest pain in children and teenagers?

Chest pain in children and teenagers is typically a sharp, stabbing pain while breathing. Chest tightness or discomfort can also occur, as can coughing or wheezing. If rapid heartbeat or dizziness occur, it might be a heart problem.

What are chest pain in children and teenagers care options?

Most of the time, these issues will resolve on their own. If the pain is continual or is accompanied by symptoms such as rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, dizziness or chest pressure, then parents should seek medical attention.


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD

This page was last updated on: July 10, 2020 10:44 AM