Chest muscle cramp

A cramp may follow exercise, forceful coughing, awkward movement, prolonged posture or a [Muscle Strain](/conditions/muscle-strain/). Dehydration and changes affecting nerves, muscles or body chemistry can also contribute. Cramps may feel like a knot, twitch or gripping pain and may be tender when the area is pressed or moved. Chest discomfort can also arise from the heart, lungs or digestive system, so location alone cannot identify the cause.

Stop the activity, breathe gently and allow the muscle to relax. A warm pack and careful stretching may help if movement does not increase pain. Drink fluids if you may be dehydrated, and avoid forceful massage over unexplained chest pain. Keep a note of triggers, duration, tenderness and associated symptoms. Repeated cramps merit a clinical review, especially with medicines or a condition affecting the kidneys, thyroid or circulation.

Call emergency services for pressure or squeezing chest pain, pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, breathlessness, sweating, faintness, nausea or a sudden severe illness. Seek prompt assessment for recurring cramps, weakness, swelling, fever, injury or pain that does not settle with rest.

Ask whether the pain behaves like a chest-wall problem, whether medicines or conditions such as [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/) could contribute, and whether you need an examination or blood tests. Describe activity, posture, hydration, symptoms and any family history of heart disease.