Are you one of those people who spends a lot of time in traffic, whether it's on your daily commute to work or on a long road trip? It's not uncommon to experience chest pain in these situations. But what are the causes and how can we deal with them effectively?
You can also discover our complete guide on the dangers of air pollution .
Possible causes of chest pain
THE chest pain should never be taken lightly. There are several factors that can explain why you feel this discomfort after prolonged exposure to traffic. The first instinct is often to think of heart problems , such as angina . While this is possible, other reasons may also be involved.
A common cause may be the Gastroesophageal reflux disease . This digestive disorder occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation and pain. A stressful situation such as driving in heavy traffic can aggravate this condition.
Thoracic outlet syndrome and pericarditis: avenues to explore
THE thoracic outlet syndrome also deserves special attention. The nerves or blood vessels between your collar and your first rib become compressed, causing pain that radiates down your arm and neck.
There Pericarditis , an inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart, may also be suspected. Although rarer, it can occur following lung infections, exacerbated by poor air quality due to traffic.
Pneumothorax and other respiratory complications
In some cases, a pneumothorax - which occurs when there is air between the lung and the chest wall - can cause sudden, severe pain. Although uncommon, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if the pain becomes unbearable.
Prolonged exposure to urban pollution can trigger Lung infections . Associated symptoms include not only pain, but also persistent cough and shortness of breath. These respiratory complications add to the discomfort during and after long journeys.
Impact of stress and anxiety
For many people, driving in traffic is synonymous with stress and anxiety . These emotions can cause muscle tightening and chest discomfort. Contrary to popular belief, stress and anxiety have real physical impacts.
Chronic stress from driving in congested traffic can have lasting side effects. Excessive stress can amplify other underlying conditions, creating a vicious cycle where the mental and physical systems become intertwined.
Digestive disorders due to stress
Frequently, stress exacerbates digestive disorders . For example, if you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease , stress can worsen your symptoms, leading to increased chest pain and other discomfort.
Other digestive issues can also occur. When you're tense or nervous, your digestive system can slow down, causing additional discomfort and pain. For some, eating habits change during times of stress, contributing to these issues.
Solutions to avoid chest pain
Fortunately, several strategies exist to mitigate and prevent chest pain associated with prolonged exposure to traffic. Start by assessing your driving position. Incorrect posture can amplify various forms of bodily tension.
Adopt a relaxed attitude while driving. Relaxation often involves deep breathing and listening to soothing music. Also consider practices such as meditation or yoga before hitting the road. These simple methods can help reduce stress.
Useful tools: is the anti-pollution mask a solution?
With rising pollution levels, many drivers are choosing to wear Anti-pollution masks . These provide a barrier against fine particles and pollutants in the air. Reducing the inhalation of irritants can lower the risk of respiratory complications.
Some masks, like those from R-PUR, feature patented filtration technology that filters out the finest particles down to 0.05 PM, all without compromising comfort.
Discover our motorcycles mask and cycling mask to protect you during your urban journeys.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
To protect your lungs and heart, adopt Balanced eating habits . Limit fatty and spicy foods that can aggravate stomach and heart problems. Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Physical exercise plays a key role in preventing cardiovascular disease and other conditions. An active body handles stress better and is more resistant to external pressures, especially those felt daily in traffic.
Consult a healthcare professional
It is crucial to consult a doctor if you frequently experience chest pain. Only a professional can properly assess your condition and determine whether this pain requires specific medical treatment.
Never ignore warning signs. Whether it's persistent pain or a sudden onset of acute pain, these signals are often your body's way of expressing its need for medical attention. A consultation can help diagnose heart problems or other worrying pathologies.
