What Causes That Bubbling Feeling in Your Chest? | 9 Prime Suspects

Light, airy, and easy-to-burst, bubbles are the one thing everyone loves, regardless of age. You've probably blown bubbles during your childhood too. It doesn't matter if they were the chewing gum or the dish-soap version. What does matter, though, is experiencing these bubbles pop inside your body.As odd as it seems, many people report a bubbling feeling in their chest, as if tiny bubbles were popping from within.But is that even possible? If so, what causes these air bubbles to arise in your chest? And what do they mean? To find out, keep on reading this blog.

What Causes the Bubbling Feeling in Your Chest?

Here are nine of the most common causes behind the bubbling feeling in your chest:

1. AsthmaOne of the major symptoms of asthma, besides coughing and difficulty breathing, is the feeling of air bubbles in the chest. This can be triggered by allergies or rigorous exercise. However, if you have an inhaler, just breathe in your required dose, and you'll be good to go.
2. Atrial FibrillationWhen the chambers of your heart are misaligned, it can lead to an irregular and fast heartbeat. At times, you may think you have a heart attack due to similar symptoms. But in most cases, it's just atrial fibrillation. Either way, seeking medical help is necessary; otherwise, blood clots might form in your heart.
3. BronchitisThe tubes that connect your throat, nose, and mouth to the lungs are known as bronchial tubes. Thus, an infection of these tubes can give way to bronchitis. Whether acute or chronic, bronchitis is a serious condition that requires urgent care and attention.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux DiseaseGERD is quite similar to acid reflux. It's when your stomach acid and bile rush up to your throat due to an internal bacterial overgrowth. If you have an odd, sour taste in your mouth, heartburn, or air bubbles in your chest, it could be an extension of GERD.
5. IndigestionWhen your metabolism doesn't work how it's supposed to, it can give way to indigestion. Symptoms of nausea, gurgling stomach, heartburn, and feeling gassy are all related to indigestion. But with some dietary changes, you can overcome such hurdles.
6. Inflamed GallbladderCholecystitis is an inflammation of your gallbladder caused by either a tumor or a blockage of the bile duct. Experiencing fever, nausea, abdominal pain and a bubbling feeling are all common with this condition. However, in order to treat it, you'd have to take antibiotics or schedule a gallbladder removal surgery.
7. PleurisyThe term 'pleurisy' comes from the word 'pleura.' This refers to a thin membrane lining the outside of your lungs along with the inside of the chest cavity. An inflammation of this membrane can lead to pleurisy. Plus, pleurisy typically only occurs as a result of an underlying health condition. So, getting it diagnosed is the best option in such cases.
8. PneumothoraxPneumothorax is pretty rare. It's when the air from your lung leaks into the tiny space between the chest wall and the lung itself. That is why pneumothorax is also known as a collapsed lung. It can arise for many reasons, but since it's a medical emergency, getting immediate medical attention is crucial.
9. TumorA tumor in your lung can also be a reason why you have a bubbling feeling in your chest. Sometimes, lung tumors can be harmless, but other times they can also be cancerous. Look out for severe chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood, as they are the signs mainly related to a lung tumor.

The Takeaway

Experiencing a bubbling feeling in your chest isn't that uncommon, but it doesn't mean it's not concerning. If you ever feel a bubbling or popping sensation in your chest, seek immediate medical assistance. You can also contact NorthWest Cardiovascular Clinic at (281) 807-5253 n case of more information or even just to schedule an appointment. So what are you waiting for? Your cardiovascular health is in your hands!