Precordial Catch Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Overview

• Precordial Catch Syndrome (PCS) is characterized by a sudden, sharp pain on the left side of the chest near the heart.
• Known as a non-serious and common condition.
• Other names: Chest Wall Twinge Syndrome, Texidor's Twinge.

Characteristics

• Intense, stabbing pain that goes away quickly.
• No impact on other parts of the body.
• Often occurs without warning.
• Common in older children, teenagers, and young adults.

Symptoms and Causes

• Primary Symptom: Sharp, stabbing pain on the left side of the chest, just below the nipple.
  • Appears suddenly and may worsen with deep breaths.
  • Pain doesn’t radiate and is confined to a small area.
  • Typically occurs during poor posture at rest.
  • Duration: A few seconds to three minutes.
• Causes: Uncertain, but possibly related to pinched nerves or muscle spasms.
  • Often linked with growth spurts in youth.

Risk Group

• Affects children as young as 6 years old to young adults in their early 20s.

Diagnosis and Tests

• Diagnosis: Based on symptom discussion, medical history, and physical examination.
  • Provider checks for tenderness and listens to the lungs and heart.
• Tests: Generally not required unless other symptoms present.
  • Possible tests include CBC, Chest X-ray, Ultrasound, EKG, and Echocardiogram for broader diagnostic work.

Management and Treatment

• Pain Relief: Stand or sit up straight; relax and take shallow breaths.
  • Some find relief through deep breaths despite pain.
• Resolution: Most individuals outgrow the syndrome by their 20s.

Prevention

• Unknown preventive measures.
• Good posture and regular deep breathing may reduce episodes.

Outlook / Prognosis

• Prognosis: Excellent; most outgrow by their 20s.
• Self-care Tips:
  • Maintain good posture.
  • Engage in chest-opening stretches or yoga.
  • Ensure adequate hydration.
  • Use NSAIDs like ibuprofen if necessary.

When to Seek Medical Help

• Consult healthcare provider if experiencing chest pain.
• Emergency if chest pain persists beyond five minutes or is associated with other severe symptoms (e.g., diaphoresis, nausea, tachycardia).

Additional Information

Difference from Costochondritis

• Costochondritis: Involves inflammation in chest cartilage, often affects both sides, and pain worsens upon touch.
• PCS pain is quicker, more localized, and not tender to touch.

Final Note

• PCS is benign and self-resolving; medical consultation can provide reassurance.