Diarrhea and chest pain are not common symptoms that occur together, so experiencing both simultaneously can be concerning. Understanding the possible causes behind these symptoms is important. Dr. Supriya Rao, a gastroenterologist at Tufts Medicine, explains that most gastrointestinal issues do not typically cause chest pain, and vice versa. However, there are certain conditions where these symptoms may overlap.
Anxiety is a potential cause of both chest pain and diarrhea, as stress and anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms such as chest tightness and gastrointestinal discomfort. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is another condition that may present with chest pain alongside typical digestive symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
In rare cases, Whipple disease, a bacterial infection affecting multiple organ systems, can lead to chest pain and diarrhea. Symptoms of Whipple disease include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. While the exact causes of this disease are not well understood, it is more prevalent in individuals who work in environments exposed to sewage or wastewater.
Although chest pain and diarrhea are typically not indicative of a heart attack, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of a heart attack, which may include chest pain radiating towards the shoulders, arms, or jaw, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and anxiety or sweating. Differentiating between chest pain caused by a heart attack and other conditions, such as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may be challenging but important.
There are various causes of diarrhea aside from chest pain, including infections, food poisoning, medications, food sensitivities, and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, COVID-19 has been linked to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, which may present before common respiratory symptoms of the virus.
When experiencing chest pain or diarrhea, it is crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning signs. Treatment for these symptoms will depend on the underlying cause, whether it be anxiety, IBS, or a more serious condition like Whipple disease. Lifestyle changes, therapy, medications, and antibiotics may be necessary for effective management. If in doubt, always consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
