Chest pain and headache can be caused by a variety of illnesses, disorders, and environmental factors. Some causes are unknown, such as in the case of primary hypertension, and other causes sometimes occur as a result of daily activities, such as exercising. While medical attention is a must in some instances, some individuals can rid themselves of these symptoms by relaxing and getting plenty of rest.
Hypertension, also called high blood pressure, is a serious illness that needs medical attention. It can cause a headache and chest pain, although many people don't experience any symptoms of the problem. The cause of hypertension is often unknown, but sometimes it is related to another illness, disorder, or condition. For example, some pregnant women develop hypertension during the course of a pregnancy, and diabetes and high cholesterol can also cause it.
Legionnaires' disease is the result of a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract, and it can cause shortness of breath and chest pain, as well as a headache, fever, and chills. The bacteria that causes this illness can grow in water that has collected and circulated in water reservoirs, such as air conditioner cooling units and lakes, and can spread to people when they breath in contaminated droplets. Cigarette smokers are often most at risk of Legionnaires’ disease, as well as individuals with chronic lung problems.
A broken or bruised rib is a common cause of chest pain, and patients may experience headache symptoms as well. Individuals complain of tenderness just above the area where they suffered the injury. One indication that the rib is broken is the movement of a fracture, which is often detected by feeling around the rib cage. Someone with a broken or bruised rib will also have trouble taking deep breaths because of pain. Medical providers often order a chest X-ray to ensure that the patient’s lungs are not collapsed or bruised due to a fracture, and they may also check the upper abdomen for injuries to the liver or spleen.
Over-exercising is often the cause of these symptoms. Many individuals don’t experience problems until finishing a vigorous workout, but then a severe headache often occurs followed by upper chest pain. Resting after workouts often relieves these symptoms. If it’s chronic, then the person may have another disorder, such as cardiac ischemia, when there is insufficient blood flow to the heart. Individuals who suspect they have cardiac ischemia should consult with a medical professional.