What Triggers Precordial Catch Syndrome?

Precordial catch syndrome is not a serious or life-threatening condition

Precordial catch syndrome is a condition characterized by sharp, neurological pain in the chest, typically on the left side, which is triggered by deep inspiration. The exact cause of precordial catch syndrome is unclear, but it is thought to be related to muscle spasms or irritation of the intercostal nerves that run between the ribs.

Some possible triggers of precordial catch syndrome include:

• Respiration: Deep breathing or rapid breathing
• Exercise: Physical activity, particularly if it is intense or causes the person to take deep breaths
• Emotions: Stress, anxiety, or other emotional states

Chest pain associated with precordial catch syndrome is usually benign and self-limiting. However, in some cases, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, so if the pain persists or is severe, you must seek medical attention immediately.

Precordial catch syndrome, also known as Texidor’s twinge, is a benign and self-limiting condition that primarily affects children and adolescents. It is characterized by sudden sharp, neurological pain on the left side of the chest one to two inches below the left nipple. The pain does not radiate, but it may be accompanied by a burning or tingling sensation. The pain is typically caused by spasms of the muscles in the walls of the chest, usually felt on the left side, just below the breastbone.

Precordial catch syndrome is a type of pain or discomfort in the chest, specifically in the chest wall where the intercostal nerves are located. It is named after the physician who first described it—Thomas Texidor. This chest pain is usually caused by irritation or compression of the intercostal nerves, which run between the ribs and supply sensation to the chest wall.

The specific cause of precordial catch syndrome is unclear, but it is known to be associated with the following:

• Muscle strain or spasms in the chest
• Rib fractures
• Nerve compression from conditions such as herniated discs or tumors
• Irritation of the nerves
• Inflammation of the chest wall
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Stress
• Hormonal changes that occur during puberty

Although it can begin as early as age six, it typically strikes people in their late teens or early 20s. It typically occurs while at rest or in a partially slouched position, such as when watching television while seated on an old couch. It could occur while doing something simple such as walking. Precordial catch syndrome never occurs during sleeping and has no connection to meals. Episodes of chest pain may occur every week or only once in a lifetime.

The pain usually lasts 30 seconds to a few minutes and can show a certain extent of relief by deep breathing or changing body position. Moreover, the pain may be accompanied by tightness or pressure in the chest, light-headedness, rapid heartbeat, and weakness.

Precordial catch syndrome is abrupt, intense pain that usually lasts 30 seconds to three minutes and may even last longer.

Unlike other types of chest pain, it is not always associated with additional symptoms. However, some symptoms may be noted; they include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Taking shallow breaths because of pain may cause light-headedness
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Fatigue

Some people complain of worsening chest pain with deep breathing, whereas others may feel relief from pain with deep breathing or a change in body position.

Precordial catch syndrome is a benign and self-limiting disorder of unknown origin that occurs in healthy adolescents and young adults but can start much earlier.

The exact cause of precordial catch syndrome is unknown. However, some possible causes include:

• Spasms of the chest wall muscles
• Irritation of the nerves in the chest
• Inflammation of the chest wall
• Gastrointestinal issues (acid reflux or indigestion, causing chest pain)
• Stress (Emotional stress or anxiety can cause the muscles of the chest to tense up, leading to chest pain.)
• Hormonal changes (Precordial catch syndrome may be more common in adolescents and young adults, which may be related to hormonal changes during puberty.)

Risk factors for precordial catch syndrome

• Age: Precordial catch syndrome is more common in children and adolescents although it can occur in adults.
• Gender: It is more common in men than in women.
• Family history: If other family members have had precordial catch syndrome, you may be at an increased risk of the condition.
• Respiratory issues: People with respiratory problems such as asthma or bronchitis may be at an increased risk of precordial catch syndrome.
• Cardiac issues: Angina pectoris, pericarditis, mitral valve prolapse, and supraventricular tachycardia can increase the risk of precordial catch syndrome.
• Miscellaneous reasons:
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Smoking
  • Substance abuse (cocaine addiction)

The specific cause of precordial catch syndrome is not identified. However, see a doctor in case of chest pain to rule out serious issues.

Precordial catch syndrome is not considered a serious or life-threatening condition. The pain is associated with sharp localized chest pain, lasting a few minutes. Although the pain can be intense, it is not typically a sign of a more serious problem and does not cause long-term damage.

Chest pain can be a symptom of a serious condition such as a heart attack, so always consult a doctor if you experience any chest pain to rule out possible serious underlying conditions and receive appropriate treatment.

The diagnosis of precordial catch syndrome is typically made based on the symptoms and physical examination. After noting down your thorough medical history, your doctor may perform a physical exam to check for signs of pain or discomfort in your chest, back, and abdomen.

To rule out other potential causes, you may be subjected to various other tests, including:

1. Electrocardiogram and echocardiogram: To check the functionality of your heart and rule out other possible causes of chest pain, such as a heart attack.
2. Blood tests: To check for any signs of inflammation or infection.
3. Imaging studies: A chest X-ray or CT scan may be performed to generate images of organs in the chest, which help identify any structural abnormalities that could cause pain in the chest.

Precordial catch syndrome is typically a benign condition that does not require treatment. However, some treatment options that can be used to help alleviate symptoms include:

1. Deep breathing: Taking slow, deep breaths can help relax the chest muscles and ease the pain. However, some may complain of increased chest pain with deep breaths.
2. Changing position: Standing up or lying down can help alleviate the pain.
3. Over-the-counter pain medication: Drugs, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate the pain.
4. Applying heat: Applying a warm compress to the chest can help relax the muscles and alleviate the pain.
5. Avoiding triggers: If the person is aware of any triggers that cause chest pain, such as certain foods or stress, they should try to avoid them.
6. Relaxation techniques: Yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms.
7. Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy or counseling may be helpful for people who have precordial catch syndrome because of stress or anxiety.

Precordial catch syndrome is a benign and self-limiting condition, and there is no known specific prevention method. However, some things that may help reduce the risk of chest pain:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of chest pain.
• Managing stress: Engaging in stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or counseling can help reduce stress and anxiety, which may trigger chest pain.
• Avoiding triggers: If a person is aware of specific triggers that cause chest pain, such as certain foods or stress, they should try to avoid them.
• Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine and nicotine: These substances can dehydrate the body and increase muscle tension, which may lead to chest pain.