The reason you sometimes get random stabbing pains in your chest has finally been explained

If you're of a certain age, then you've probably had some random pains in your chest at some point in your life and you've probably never known why that is.

As soon as something in your chest hurts, if you've got any shred of health anxiety then you're probably immediately thinking there's something wrong with your heart, but the reality is often something far less serious.

There is a plethora of information out there about heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases, but Google isn't always your friend when it comes to checking symptoms, as it can lead you to assume the worst.

If you're taking good steps to protect your heart such as a healthy diet and exercise, and you're still enjoying life in the fountain of youth, then it's fairly unlikely that you're going to be struck down by a heart attack.

Chest pain and shooting sensations down your left arm can indicate a heart attack (Getty Stock Photo)

So, if your stabbing pains in your chest aren't accompanied by shooting pains down your left arm or shortness of breath and the pain subsides completely within a few minutes, then it seems as if there isn't as much to worry about. In fact, given that anxiety can bring about these pains, worrying about it is arguably the worst thing you can do.

The reason behind the pains has been revealed as precordial catch syndrome (PCS), a condition which was first described all the way back in 1893.

Also known as Texidor's twinge, the non-serious condition leads to stabbing pains in the chest and typically lasts for just a few minutes. Perhaps surprisingly, this condition seems to affect children, particularly between the ages of six and 12, as well as young adults far more than the older generation.

Typically, there are no other symptoms and it likely to strike when you are simply resting, which again reaffirms that this is nothing to do with your heart, as issues there would be far more likely to occur when burdened from exercise or stress.

It's easy to become anxious about the symptoms but you shouldn't need to worry (Getty Stock Images)

However, the underlying cause remains unclear and doctors are still trying to identify a clear reason why the pain occurs, with some theories suggesting that the pain may be from the chest wall or irritation of an intercostal nerve.

While it can cause psychological stress if this is a regular occurrence, the prognosis is good and the best treatment is taking some deep breaths and being told that you are OK.

But if you're worried and the symptoms persist, then do not hesitate to contact your doctor.