Heart conditions that can cause pain between the shoulder blades include angina pectoris, aortic dissection, and pericarditis. In this response, I will focus on angina pectoris.
Angina pectoris is a common heart condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when there is not enough blood flow to the heart muscles. This lack of blood flow is often caused by a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart. When the heart muscle does not receive enough blood, it can lead to pain and discomfort.
One of the unique features of angina pectoris is that the pain can radiate to other parts of the body, including the shoulder blades. This referred pain occurs because the nerves that supply the heart also send signals to other areas, such as the shoulders and arms. So when there is a lack of blood flow to the heart, these nerves can also transmit pain signals to the shoulder blades, causing discomfort in that area.
The pain between the shoulder blades in angina pectoris is often described as a squeezing, pressure-like sensation. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and lightheadedness. The pain can be triggered by physical activity, emotional stress, or even just a cold temperature.
It is important to note that not all shoulder blade pain is caused by angina pectoris. Other conditions such as muscle strain, cervical spine issues, or even gastrointestinal problems can also cause pain in this area. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to accurately diagnose the cause of the pain.
In my personal experience, I have encountered patients who have described experiencing pain between their shoulder blades during episodes of angina pectoris. One patient, for example, described the pain as a tightness that spread from their chest to their back, specifically between the shoulder blades. They also mentioned feeling a sense of heaviness in their arms. After undergoing further medical evaluation, including an electrocardiogram and stress test, they were diagnosed with angina pectoris.
Angina pectoris is a heart condition that can cause pain between the shoulder blades. The pain is a result of reduced blood flow to the heart muscles and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to accurately diagnose the cause of shoulder blade pain, as other conditions can also be responsible.