Chest Pain

Our pediatric cardiology team specializes in evaluating chest pain in children, identifying its cause, and providing reassurance or treatment when needed.
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Chest pain is one of the most common reasons families visit our pediatric cardiology clinic. While it’s natural to worry about the heart, most chest pain in children is caused by other factors, such as sore muscles, inflammation, or stress.

At University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital, your family has access to an entire team of pediatric cardiologists, nurses, and advanced practice providers who specialize in evaluating chest pain in children. We combine advanced testing with compassionate care, so you feel heard, informed, and supported every step of the way. Our goal is to give you straightforward information, relief from worry, and a clear plan moving forward. 

 

Chest pain symptoms and causes

Children describe chest pain in many different ways: sharp, dull, tight, or pressure-like. How often it happens, when it occurs, and what makes it better or worse all help us pinpoint the cause. 

Common non-cardiac causes of chest pain include: 

  • Muscle strain or inflammation after activity or coughing 
  • Acid reflux or stomach irritation 
  • Asthma or other breathing problems 
  • Anxiety or stress that causes chest tightness 

Heart-related chest pain is much less common, but it can occur in children who have heart rhythm problems, congenital heart disease, or inflammation around the heart. If we suspect a cardiac cause, we’ll evaluate further with imaging or rhythm monitoring. 

When to seek care

Call your doctor or seek emergency care if your child’s chest pain: 

  • Happens during exercise or activity 
  • Comes with fainting, dizziness, or a racing heartbeat 
  • Is paired with shortness of breath or bluish skin 
  • Follows an injury to the chest 

If the pain is mild or linked to a cold, cough, or muscle soreness, it’s usually safe to monitor at home. You can always reach out to us if you’re unsure.

Chest pain diagnosis and evaluation

During your child’s appointment, we’ll start with a detailed history and physical exam. If needed, we may perform simple, noninvasive tests such as: 

  • Echocardiogram (ECHO). An ultrasound to observe the heart’s structure and function. 
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG). A short test that records the heart’s electrical activity. 
  • Exercise testing. A test that involves exercising while hooked up to monitors to measure how the heart responds during activity. 

These tests are quick and painless. Most families learn the results the same day and leave knowing whether their child’s pain is heart-related or not. 

Treatment for chest pain 

Treatment depends on the cause. For many children, reassurance and rest are all that’s needed. We may recommend stretching, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, or strategies to ease anxiety or acid reflux. If the pain is linked to a heart condition, we’ll connect you with the right cardiology subspecialty, such as electrophysiology or imaging, for further care. 

Worried about your child’s chest pain?

When you call, we’ll help you find a provider who meets your needs.
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