Symptoms related to chest pain and headache are caused by illnesses, disorders, and environmental factors. Some causes are unknown, such as in the case of primary hypertension, and other causes sometimes occur as a result of daily activities, such as exercising. While medical attention is a must in some instances, some individuals can rid themselves of chest pain and headache symptoms by relaxing and getting plenty of rest.

Hypertension is a serious illness that needs medical attention. Chest pain and headache-related symptoms may indicate hypertension, which is also referred to as high blood pressure. The cause of hypertension is often unknown, but sometimes is related to another illness, disorder, or condition. For example, some pregnant women develop hypertension during the course of a pregnancy, which results in chest pain and headache symptoms. Diabetes and high cholesterol are also causes of hypertension.

Environmental factors are also sometimes the root cause of chest pain and headache symptoms. Legionnaires' disease is the result of a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. The cause of it is often related to bacteria that’s collected and circulated in water reservoirs, such as air conditioner cooling units and lakes. The disease is a result of breathing in contaminated water droplets, which can lead to chest pain and headache symptoms. Cigarette smokers are often most at risk of Legionnaires’ disease, as well as individuals with chronic lung problems.

A broken or bruised rib is a common cause of chest pain, and patients may experience headache symptoms as well. Individuals complain of tenderness just above the area where they suffered the injury. One indication that the rib is broken is the movement of a fracture, which is often detected by feeling around the rib cage. Someone with a broken or bruised rib will also have trouble taking deep breaths because of chest pain. Medical providers often order a chest x-ray to ensure that the patient’s lungs are not collapsed or bruised due to a rib fracture, and may also check the upper abdomen for injuries to the liver or spleen.

Over-exercising is often the culprit of a headache with chest pain. Many individuals don’t experience the chest pain and headache until the completion of a vigorous workout. Then a severe headache often occurs followed by upper chest pain. Resting after workouts often relieves these symptoms. If it’s chronic, then another disorder may exist, such as cardiac ischemia. This is a medical condition to describe insufficient blood flow to the heart. Individuals who suspect they have cardiac ischemia should consult with a physician.