Chest pain is a serious symptom that should never be overlooked. It can stem from a variety of health issues, ranging from problems in the lungs and throat to muscle or bone-related concerns in the chest area. When chest pain is accompanied by a fever, it could point to infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, or the flu.

What Causes Fever and Chest Pain?

Fever is typically defined as a body temperature above 38º Celsius. It is often a sign of an infection, chronic inflammation, or sometimes a reaction following immunization.

When both fever and chest pain occur together, here are some potential causes to consider:

Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and chest pain, which may feel like a burning or tight sensation.

Managing the flu involves staying hydrated, resting, and taking antiviral medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs. When the trachea and bronchi become inflamed, they produce excess mucus, triggering coughing. Bronchitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or environmental irritants like smoke. Common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.

Treatment for bronchitis typically includes medications to thin mucus, NSAIDs to reduce inflammation, the use of a humidifier to ease breathing, and antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli), leading to fluid buildup in the lungs. This condition can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms include fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and chills. Treatment is dependent on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications.

Myocarditis

Myocarditis refers to inflammation of the myocardium, which is the heart muscle. This condition can impair the heart's ability to pump blood and deliver oxygen to the body. Myocarditis may result from a viral infection, an autoimmune disorder, a drug reaction, or systemic inflammation.

Treatment options for myocarditis include medications, the use of an ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) device in severe cases, or a heart transplant in extreme cases.

Pericarditis

The pericardium is the protective sac surrounding the heart. When this sac becomes inflamed, it’s known as pericarditis. In some instances, fluid or blood may leak into the pericardial space. Pericarditis is often triggered by a viral infection, such as a cold or sore throat. Treatment generally involves medication to reduce inflammation.

Esophagitis 

Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It can be caused by excessive stomach acid, infections, viruses, or reactions to certain medications.

Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Treatment typically involves medication and lifestyle adjustments.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While a mild fever from a simple infection may subside within a few days, you should seek medical attention immediately if the fever reaches 39º Celsius and persists for several days, or if it is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Severe headache
• Unexplained and worsening rash
• Confusion
• Neck pain
• Abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Pain during urination
• Seizures

Unexplained chest pain should also be treated as an emergency, as it could signal a heart attack. If chest pain is accompanied by discomfort in the arms or shoulders, pain in the jaw, shortness of breath, dizziness, or weakness, it’s essential to see a doctor right away.

Ignoring chest pain can lead to serious consequences, especially if it is accompanied by fever. Always take these symptoms seriously and consult a healthcare professional for prompt treatment. You can also use the Ai Care application for a consultation, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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