Pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and narcotics may be ordered. All medications have possible side effects. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause allergic reactions and stomach upset. Narcotics can cause nausea , constipation and allergic reactions . Other side effects are also possible, depending on the medication used.
Surgery carries the risks of bleeding, infection and allergic reactions to pain medications.
More specific side effects depend on the surgery performed. If the underlying cause is treated, the chest pain will usually go away. Some people may need ongoing pain medication . This would be the case for people with arthritis . Affected people can monitor their own chest pain and how well it responses to treatment.