Every year on the 7th of April, we commemorate World Health Day to openly speak and spread awareness about living a healthy lifestyle and making sure that everyone can get easy access to healthcare.
This year, we seek to talk about the importance of chest and stomach pain. Sometimes this pain is overlooked by those of us who suffer from it until it doesn’t turn into something serious inside our bodies. Often these pain don’t seem a big deal, but other times, they are the ones that can cause big harm, hence it is important to pay attention to them and get help as and when needed.
If you are someone who is suffering from occasional chest pain and stomach pain, it is advisable to see a doctor right away. They can figure out what is the actual problem and cure you accordingly. Infact if you have asthma it’s important to see an asthma specialist. On this special day of World Health Day take care of ourselves and each other.
The Importance of World Health Day
World Health Day is not just a normal date on the calendar, the day has been observed by the World Health Organisation to take a global initiative to draw attention to pressing health issues and encourage healthy living.
Each year, a particular theme is chosen to highlight an important aspect of health. This year the theme is chosen to be understanding , recognising and emphasising the importance of the early intervention and prevention measures.
Understanding the pain In Chest
You need to understand that chest pain stems from various causes, and can start from any minor issue like indigestion to life risking conditions like heart attack. Though not all chest pain shows a problem in the heart or may not lead to cardiac arrest, it is important not to ignore the pain without proper checkup.
Chest pain may also appear as a dull ache, tightness, pressure or stabbing sensation that can appear in the neck , jaw, arms, shoulders and back.
Practical Causes of Chest Pain
There are many factors that add to chest pain, including:
- Heart related problems : Heart Attack, Cardiovascular Conditions, Angina and Pericarditis.
- Gastrointestinal and Stomach Problems: Acid Reflux, Gastritis, Inflammation of the Oesophagus.
- Respiratory Problems : Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Pulmonary Embolism and Asthma which needs to be checked by an asthma specialist.
Understanding the Pain in Abdomen
The pain in the abdomen alludes to discomfort or the cramping in the area between the chest and pelvis. Similar to the chest pain, abdomen pain can rise from the various potential causes starting from digestive pain to severe conditions. The location and characteristics of the pain along with its symptoms can provide valuable clues about its underlying causes.
Common Causes of the Pain in Abdomen
Some of the most common causes for the pain in abdomen are:
- Digestive Problems and Disorders: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Gastroenteritis or Food Intolerances.
- Genealogical Problems: Endometriosis, Ovarian Cysts or Menstrual Cramps.
- Urinary Tract Problems: Kidney Stones, Urinary Tract Infections or Bladder Issues.
Not paying attention to the chest or abdominal pain can have bad consequences while some episodes may resolve on their own, others may get worse over time. This may lead to complications or even life risking situations.
Wrapping Up
On the day of World Health Day, let us all prioritise our well being by understanding the importance of addressing the chest and abdominal pain. The symptoms that are mentioned above serve as important warning signals that should not be avoided at no cost. Regardless of where they come from or the practical causes, prompt action can greatly reduce the problems and the pain.
If you think your chest pain is not limited to pain but you are also experiencing the difficulties in breathing or feeling tired or suffering from severe stomach pain promptly consult an asthma specialist and a stomach specialist respectively to embrace the measures to prevent it can lead to a healthy life.