How can i tell the difference between chest muscle pain or heart pain? they are so close together i am having a hard time distinguishing them apart.

Distinguishing Pain: Muscle related chest pain is sharp reproducible either by pressure or by arm movements or applying load to concerned muscle ( tightening or contracting muscle. Heart related pain . Is usually vague achiness and usually worsens with exertional activity. There is usually feeling of breathlessness with exertion. Hope that helps. In most chest pain cases it is best to see a physician right away.

By having your MD: Examine you. Costochondritis , or tietze's syndrome is diagnosed by pain or tenderness when your md presses on the junction of the affected rib(s) & the sternum (breastbone). Chest wall pain can last 4-8 weeks after the injury that caused the separation & inflammation, tho' mild pain may be elicited by certain movements for ~ 6 mos. Applying heat & non-steroidal anti-inflammatory meds help.