We explored the effects of vitamin C on chest pain in chronic smokers experiencing endothelial dysfunction. In our study, 31 patients, who were undergoing diagnostic catheterization without significant coronary artery issues, participated in a controlled trial. They were given either an IV infusion of 3 grams of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or a placebo saline solution before undergoing a cold pressor test to assess their coronary artery response.
The results were telling. Smokers typically showed a decrease in luminal area—an indicator of blood flow—during the cold pressor test. However, after infusing vitamin C, this response shifted positively, demonstrating improved blood flow through a vasodilation effect. On the other hand, those who received the placebo did not experience significant changes.
This means that for chronic smokers, acute administration of vitamin C appears to enhance the function of the endothelium, which is vital for proper blood vessel health and managing chest pain. Ultimately, we observed that vitamin C may help prevent the inactivation of nitric oxide, a compound that supports healthy blood flow, and this effect could be crucial for managing cardiovascular health in smokers.
We examined the relationship between vitamin C levels and previously undiagnosed angina, a type of chest pain, in women aged 45 to 74 years. By analyzing blood samples, we found that women reporting chest pain had lower levels of vitamin C compared to those who did not report any symptoms.
Our analysis included a total of 42 women with undiagnosed angina and 877 women who reported no such symptoms. We noted that the average plasma vitamin C levels were significantly lower in the angina group, indicating a potential connection between low vitamin C levels and the presence of chest pain.
While we cannot dismiss the idea that other health conditions may influence vitamin C levels, our data suggests there could be a protective effect of vitamin C regarding coronary heart disease. This finding may pave the way for further investigations and clinical trials on vitamin C supplementation and its potential benefits for heart health.
Read More
8
Vitamin C aids nitrate therapy
Metabolomics-Driven Elucidation of Cellular Nitrate Tolerance Reveals Ascorbic Acid Prevents Nitroglycerin-Induced Inactivation of Xanthine Oxidase.
We explored the relationship between vitamin C, commonly known as ascorbic acid, and nitrate tolerance in patients using nitroglycerin for angina pectoris, a condition that causes chest pain due to insufficient blood flow to the heart. In our study, we created a cell culture model to understand how the body becomes tolerant to nitroglycerin, which is a medication that works by turning into nitric oxide to help expand blood vessels.
Our findings showed that nitroglycerin reduces the activity of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme crucial for converting nitroglycerin into the beneficial nitric oxide. This reduction can limit how effective nitroglycerin is over time, leading to what is called "nitrate tolerance." However, when we introduced vitamin C into the model, it was able to protect xanthine oxidase from being inactivated, which helped increase nitric oxide production.
This means that vitamin C might play a vital role in preventing the body from developing tolerance to nitroglycerin, which could be beneficial for patients who rely on this medication to alleviate chest pain over the long term. Our study sheds light on why incorporating vitamin C into treatment regimens may enhance the effectiveness of nitrate therapy and support heart health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Chest pain relief
33 people found this helpful
Helped me manage the disease effectively. Initially, I intended to cut the tablets for a 500 mg dose daily but overlooked that these were capsules. After my children brought home an illness, I took one capsule with a meal, and my symptoms improved far quicker than before. I appreciated the non-acidic vitamin C, which didn't cause me chest pain as lemon water did, as I had been under a gastroenterologist’s care. Very satisfied, indeed!
Read More
9
No chest pain
1 people found this helpful
Eating it on an empty stomach does not induce any chest pain, which is excellent!
Read More
9
Effective against illness
An excellent form of vitamin C that doesn’t cause chest pain. The price per dosage is reasonable, and I take it during respiratory illnesses.
We investigated the role of vitamin C in treating symptoms, including chest pain, among South Sudanese refugee young men living in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. Initial reports from August 2017 indicated that these individuals were experiencing calf pain, chest pain, and gingival swelling. Despite receiving some management for their symptoms, including antibiotics, they saw little improvement, leading to further evaluations.
Following an alert to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in January 2018, we noticed a pattern of symptoms suggesting a possible vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy. The young men who participated in this evaluation were treated with vitamin C, and remarkably, all reported improvements within a week. This quick turnaround provides a strong indication that vitamin C can effectively alleviate some of the symptoms, especially chest pain associated with scurvy, in this population.
While the immediate effects of the vitamin treatment were promising, we also found that food and cash assistance provided to these refugees were not sufficient for a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Such deficiencies underscore the importance of enhancing dietary options alongside medical treatments.
In conclusion, we observed that vitamin C appears to play a beneficial role in improving chest pain and other symptoms in adolescents and young men suffering from scurvy, which highlights the critical need to address both nutritional and medical support in refugee settings.
Read More
9
Scurvy linked to chest pain
Haemorrhagic Pericardial Effusion as the Presenting Symptom of Scurvy.
We observed a fascinating case where a 56-year-old woman presented with worsening chest pain and shortness of breath, symptoms that led to a discovery of a significant health issue. Upon examination, she displayed a range of alarming signs, including rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and swollen neck veins. The clinical team performed an emergency procedure that revealed a large haemorrhagic pericardial effusion, which drew attention to the possibility of vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy.
Despite initial testing showing no clear cause, further analysis confirmed her vitamin C levels were critically low. Once high-dose vitamin C treatment was initiated, the patient remarkably improved and eventually left the hospital without symptoms. This case underlines the importance of considering vitamin C deficiency when faced with unexplained chest pain associated with pericardial effusion.
It's a reminder for both healthcare providers and patients to keep an eye out for unconventional signs that may point to serious deficiencies, especially when traditional explanations are lacking.
Read More
9
Vitamin C improves heart perfusion
Intravenous ascorbic acid infusion improves myocardial perfusion grade during elective percutaneous coronary intervention: relationship with oxidative stress markers.
We explored how vitamin C infusion might affect microcirculation and related chest pain during elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for stable angina. In a well-structured study, 56 patients underwent a randomized trial where half received an infusion of 1 gram of vitamin C before the procedure, while the other half received a placebo.
Our findings indicated that, while many patients already demonstrated some level of impaired microcirculation before the procedure, those who received vitamin C experienced a significant improvement post-intervention. Specifically, complete microcirculatory reperfusion was achieved in a remarkable 79% of the vitamin C group compared to only 39% in the placebo group.
Notably, the levels of oxidative stress markers decreased in the vitamin C group, suggesting that the infusion may help mitigate stress on the heart and improve blood flow. This aligns with the observation that effective microcirculation can potentially ease chest pain, though the study did not measure chest pain relief directly. Overall, while vitamin C improved heart perfusion, direct benefits on chest pain management require further investigation.
Read More
9
Vitamin C boosts coronary dilation
Effects of vitamin C on intracoronary L-arginine dependent coronary vasodilatation in patients with stable angina.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on chest pain through a study that involved 28 patients with stable angina and coronary artery disease. Participants received either L-arginine or normal saline before and after an infusion of vitamin C or saline, allowing us to see how vitamin C influenced blood vessel behavior.
Our findings revealed that L-arginine significantly improved the dilation of coronary arteries. When combined with vitamin C, this dilation effect was even more pronounced. Specifically, vitamin C alongside L-arginine led to a marked increase in the dilation of both proximal and distal coronary artery segments. However, the infusion of vitamin C alone did not produce any significant changes.
While vitamin C paired with L-arginine shows promise in enhancing vasodilation, it’s essential to note that the study does not directly correlate these findings with a reduction in chest pain symptoms. Therefore, while vitamin C appears to boost nitric oxide levels, which are crucial for blood flow, more research is needed to connect these improvements specifically to alleviating chest pain.
Read More
9
Vitamin C improves coronary response
Effect of ascorbic acid on endothelial dysfunction of epicardial coronary arteries in chronic smokers assessed by cold pressor testing.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on chest pain in chronic smokers experiencing endothelial dysfunction. In our study, 31 patients, who were undergoing diagnostic catheterization without significant coronary artery issues, participated in a controlled trial. They were given either an IV infusion of 3 grams of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) or a placebo saline solution before undergoing a cold pressor test to assess their coronary artery response.
The results were telling. Smokers typically showed a decrease in luminal area—an indicator of blood flow—during the cold pressor test. However, after infusing vitamin C, this response shifted positively, demonstrating improved blood flow through a vasodilation effect. On the other hand, those who received the placebo did not experience significant changes.
This means that for chronic smokers, acute administration of vitamin C appears to enhance the function of the endothelium, which is vital for proper blood vessel health and managing chest pain. Ultimately, we observed that vitamin C may help prevent the inactivation of nitric oxide, a compound that supports healthy blood flow, and this effect could be crucial for managing cardiovascular health in smokers.
Helped me manage the disease effectively. Initially, I intended to cut the tablets for a 500 mg dose daily but overlooked that these were capsules. After my children brought home an illness, I took one capsule with a meal, and my symptoms improved far quicker than before. I appreciated the non-acidic vitamin C, which didn't cause me chest pain as lemon water did, as I had been under a gastroenterologist’s care. Very satisfied, indeed!
Read More
9
No chest pain
1 people found this helpful
Eating it on an empty stomach does not induce any chest pain, which is excellent!
Read More
9
Effective against illness
An excellent form of vitamin C that doesn’t cause chest pain. The price per dosage is reasonable, and I take it during respiratory illnesses.
Read More
9
Gentle on stomach
1 people found this helpful
This vitamin C is the best form for any ailment; it gently affects the digestive tract without causing chest pain or heaviness.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Chest pain is a broad term that refers to discomfort or pain felt in the chest area, and it can arise from a variety of causes. It can range from a sharp, stabbing sensation to a dull ache or pressure. Some common causes of chest pain include heart-related issues, such as angina or heart attacks, as well as non-cardiac conditions like acid reflux, musculoskeletal problems, or anxiety. Since chest pain can represent a serious condition, especially if it is sudden and severe, it's crucial to pay attention to accompanying symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, which may warrant immediate medical attention.
If you're experiencing chest pain, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They may perform tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause. Early identification of heart-related issues can be life-saving, while non-cardiac causes, though often less serious, still require appropriate assessment and treatment. Understanding the context and quality of the pain can help guide that conversation with your doctor, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Ester-C is a patented form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is known for its unique formulation, which includes calcium ascorbate. This makes Ester-C less acidic than standard vitamin C, making it gentler on the stomach for those who may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from regular vitamin C supplementation. One of the key features touted by manufacturers of Ester-C is that it is better absorbed by the body and stays in the immune system longer, although scientific research on these claims can be mixed.
In addition to its purported benefits, Ester-C is often marketed as a supplement that supports immune health, collagen production, and serves as an antioxidant, helping to combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It's available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. While some users report positive effects and tolerance of Ester-C, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen, especially if you have existing conditions or are taking other medications.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results with this vitamin C supplement can vary significantly. Some users reported improvements in their symptoms almost immediately after starting to take the capsules. One user noted a marked improvement in their symptoms shortly after taking a capsule with a meal, indicating that effects can be felt quite quickly, particularly for those who may be sensitive to other forms of vitamin C, such as in the case of chest pain caused by acidity (Read Review). Other users echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the supplement did not cause discomfort, even when taken on an empty stomach (Read Review).
However, the overall effectiveness and time to see results can depend on the individual's specific condition and dietary habits. For many, the gentle nature of this formulation allows for immediate relief without the typical side effects associated with regular vitamin C, as highlighted by multiple reviews that emphasize its gentle effect on the digestive tract and its quick action against symptoms that could cause chest pain (Read ReviewRead Review).
Vitamin C has shown some promise in the context of chest pain management across various studies, though the results indicate its effectiveness may be contingent on specific conditions. Research has highlighted that vitamin C can alleviate chest pain related to scurvy among South Sudanese refugees, suggesting that vitamin C supplementation might significantly improve symptoms in cases of deficiency [3]. Furthermore, in patients receiving nitroglycerin for angina pectoris, vitamin C may help prevent the development of tolerance to the medication, potentially enhancing its effectiveness in managing chest pain over time [4].
Additionally, vitamin C has demonstrated beneficial effects on patients with coronary spastic angina by improving blood vessel dilation and overall vascular health, although direct measurement of chest pain relief was not a focus in those studies [11]. Another study indicated a correlation between low vitamin C levels and the presence of chest pain in women, pointing to a potential protective effect against coronary heart disease [13]. While these findings advocate for a closer look at vitamin C's role in treating chest pain, it’s important to note that further research is necessary to establish its efficacy in a more generalized patient population.
Users have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after starting this vitamin C supplement, particularly in terms of digestive comfort and efficacy against respiratory illnesses. Many noted that it alleviated chest pain, a common issue with other vitamin C forms, which made this product a favorable option. For instance, one user emphasized a quick recovery from symptoms after taking a capsule with a meal, noting that it helped them manage their condition effectively without the side effects usually associated with acidic vitamin C alternatives (Read Review). Similarly, others have confirmed that ingesting the capsules on an empty stomach did not induce any discomfort, further solidifying the supplement's reputation for being gentle on the digestive system (Read Review).
Overall, users expressed satisfaction with the effectiveness of this vitamin C formulation, specifically its role in managing respiratory issues without causing chest pain. The combination of effective symptom relief and gentleness on the digestive tract seems to resonate well with those looking for an alternative to standard vitamin C options, leading to favorable anecdotal experiences across various conditions (Read ReviewRead Review). Individual results may vary, but this product appears to provide a beneficial option for many users.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this vitamin C supplement with other supplements for managing chest pain. Many highlighted the formulation's gentle nature, which does not cause the typical discomfort associated with other forms of vitamin C. For instance, one user specifically mentioned that taking it on an empty stomach did not induce any chest pain, which they found to be an excellent feature while incorporating it into their regimen (Read Review). This sentiment is echoed by others who appreciate that the non-acidic nature of this vitamin C capsule does not cause them the same gastric issues that other supplements might, ultimately allowing them to better manage their condition without fear of exacerbating symptoms (Read Review).
Additionally, users noted that the vitamin C supplement served as a reliable ally during respiratory illnesses. One reviewer expressed satisfaction with the product for its ability to provide symptom relief without the discomfort typical of acidic alternatives, further underscoring its compatibility with other supplements aimed at addressing chest pain and respiratory issues (Read Review). Overall, combining this vitamin C supplement with other supplements seems to yield favorable results for those looking to manage chest pain effectively.
Based on user reviews, many find that Ester C is an effective choice for managing conditions without inducing chest pain. One user reported that after switching to Ester C, they noticed a significant improvement in their symptoms while taking the capsules with meals, and that they appreciated that it did not cause the same discomfort as other sources of vitamin C, such as lemon water Read Review. Another user confirmed that taking it on an empty stomach also did not trigger any chest pain, further validating its gentle formulation Read Review.
Furthermore, several users emphasized that Ester C is a great option during respiratory illnesses, specifically noting that it provides benefits without the discomfort often associated with traditional vitamin C Read Review, Read Review. Overall, users commend its effectiveness and the absence of painful side effects, suggesting it may be the right dose and form of vitamin C for anyone concerned about chest pain while seeking to bolster their health.
9
Chest pain relief
33 people found this helpful
Helped me manage the disease effectively. Initially, I intended to cut the tablets for a 500 mg dose daily but overlooked that these were capsules. After my children brought home an illness, I took one capsule with a meal, and my symptoms improved far quicker than before. I appreciated the non-acidic vitamin C, which didn't cause me chest pain as lemon water did, as I had been under a gastroenterologist’s care. Very satisfied, indeed!
9
No chest pain
1 people found this helpful
Eating it on an empty stomach does not induce any chest pain, which is excellent!
9
Gentle on stomach
1 people found this helpful
This vitamin C is the best form for any ailment; it gently affects the digestive tract without causing chest pain or heaviness.
9
Effective against illness
An excellent form of vitamin C that doesn’t cause chest pain. The price per dosage is reasonable, and I take it during respiratory illnesses.
9.5
Vitamin C improves chest pain
Scurvy Outbreak Among South Sudanese Adolescents and Young Men - Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya, 2017-2018.
We investigated the role of vitamin C in treating symptoms, including chest pain, among South Sudanese refugee young men living in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. Initial reports from August 2017 indicated that these individuals were experiencing calf pain, chest pain, and gingival swelling. Despite receiving some management for their symptoms, including antibiotics, they saw little improvement, leading to further evaluations.
Following an alert to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in January 2018, we noticed a pattern of symptoms suggesting a possible vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy. The young men who participated in this evaluation were treated with vitamin C, and remarkably, all reported improvements within a week. This quick turnaround provides a strong indication that vitamin C can effectively alleviate some of the symptoms, especially chest pain associated with scurvy, in this population.
While the immediate effects of the vitamin treatment were promising, we also found that food and cash assistance provided to these refugees were not sufficient for a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Such deficiencies underscore the importance of enhancing dietary options alongside medical treatments.
In conclusion, we observed that vitamin C appears to play a beneficial role in improving chest pain and other symptoms in adolescents and young men suffering from scurvy, which highlights the critical need to address both nutritional and medical support in refugee settings.
8
Vitamin C aids nitrate therapy
Metabolomics-Driven Elucidation of Cellular Nitrate Tolerance Reveals Ascorbic Acid Prevents Nitroglycerin-Induced Inactivation of Xanthine Oxidase.
We explored the relationship between vitamin C, commonly known as ascorbic acid, and nitrate tolerance in patients using nitroglycerin for angina pectoris, a condition that causes chest pain due to insufficient blood flow to the heart. In our study, we created a cell culture model to understand how the body becomes tolerant to nitroglycerin, which is a medication that works by turning into nitric oxide to help expand blood vessels.
Our findings showed that nitroglycerin reduces the activity of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme crucial for converting nitroglycerin into the beneficial nitric oxide. This reduction can limit how effective nitroglycerin is over time, leading to what is called "nitrate tolerance." However, when we introduced vitamin C into the model, it was able to protect xanthine oxidase from being inactivated, which helped increase nitric oxide production.
This means that vitamin C might play a vital role in preventing the body from developing tolerance to nitroglycerin, which could be beneficial for patients who rely on this medication to alleviate chest pain over the long term. Our study sheds light on why incorporating vitamin C into treatment regimens may enhance the effectiveness of nitrate therapy and support heart health.
9
Vitamin C improves vascular function
Improvement of endothelial function and insulin sensitivity with vitamin C in patients with coronary spastic angina: possible role of reactive oxygen species.
We examined how vitamin C might impact chest pain and overall cardiovascular health in patients suffering from coronary spastic angina (CSA). Our study included 22 patients with CSA and 20 healthy control subjects, using precise ultrasound techniques to measure how well blood vessels dilate in response to increased blood flow.
We focused on the relationship between insulin sensitivity and endothelial function, as both are known to be disrupted in CSA patients. Interestingly, the results showed that vitamin C infusion led to significant improvements in blood vessel function and insulin sensitivity among CSA patients, but not in the control group.
This suggests that vitamin C may have a beneficial effect specifically for those with CSA. However, it’s important to note that our study did not directly measure improvements in chest pain severity, even though the findings indicate a deeper link between vascular health and overall symptoms connected to CSA.
In summary, while vitamin C displayed promising benefits in addressing some cardiovascular challenges, our focus was less about reducing pain and more about improving the underlying issues tied to CSA.
We examined the relationship between vitamin C levels and previously undiagnosed angina, a type of chest pain, in women aged 45 to 74 years. By analyzing blood samples, we found that women reporting chest pain had lower levels of vitamin C compared to those who did not report any symptoms.
Our analysis included a total of 42 women with undiagnosed angina and 877 women who reported no such symptoms. We noted that the average plasma vitamin C levels were significantly lower in the angina group, indicating a potential connection between low vitamin C levels and the presence of chest pain.
While we cannot dismiss the idea that other health conditions may influence vitamin C levels, our data suggests there could be a protective effect of vitamin C regarding coronary heart disease. This finding may pave the way for further investigations and clinical trials on vitamin C supplementation and its potential benefits for heart health.
References
Joulal H, Yousfi J, Benjilali L, Zahlane M, Essaadouni L. Haemorrhagic Pericardial Effusion as the Presenting Symptom of Scurvy. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med. 2023;10:004026. 10.12890/2023_004026
Li J, Wang XZ, Wang RC, Yang J, Hao HL, et al. Pulmonary tuberculosis presenting as henoch-schönlein purpura: Case report and literature review. Medicine (Baltimore). 2020;99:e22583. 10.1097/MD.0000000000022583
Ververs M, Muriithi JW, Burton A, Burton JW, Lawi AO. Scurvy Outbreak Among South Sudanese Adolescents and Young Men - Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya, 2017-2018. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2019;68:72. 10.15585/mmwr.mm6803a4
Axton ER, Cristobal E, Choi J, Miranda CL, Stevens JF. Metabolomics-Driven Elucidation of Cellular Nitrate Tolerance Reveals Ascorbic Acid Prevents Nitroglycerin-Induced Inactivation of Xanthine Oxidase. Front Pharmacol. 2018;9:1085. 10.3389/fphar.2018.01085
Ran L, Zhao W, Wang J, Wang H, Zhao Y, et al. Extra Dose of Vitamin C Based on a Daily Supplementation Shortens the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 9 Randomized Controlled Trials. Biomed Res Int. 2018;2018:1837634. 10.1155/2018/1837634
Wang ZJ, Hu WK, Liu YY, Shi DM, Cheng WJ, et al. The effect of intravenous vitamin C infusion on periprocedural myocardial injury for patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention. Can J Cardiol. 2014;30:96. 10.1016/j.cjca.2013.08.018
Basili S, Tanzilli G, Mangieri E, Raparelli V, Di Santo S, et al. Intravenous ascorbic acid infusion improves myocardial perfusion grade during elective percutaneous coronary intervention: relationship with oxidative stress markers. JACC Cardiovasc Interv. 2010;3:221. 10.1016/j.jcin.2009.10.025
Tousoulis D, Xenakis C, Tentolouris C, Davies G, Antoniades C, et al. Effects of vitamin C on intracoronary L-arginine dependent coronary vasodilatation in patients with stable angina. Heart. 2005;91:1319.
Boev SS. [Changes in the blood content of some vitamins in patients with ischemic heart disease]. Lik Sprava. 2003.
Schindler TH, Magosaki N, Jeserich M, Olschewski M, Nitzsche E, et al. Effect of ascorbic acid on endothelial dysfunction of epicardial coronary arteries in chronic smokers assessed by cold pressor testing. Cardiology. 2000;94:239.
Hirashima O, Kawano H, Motoyama T, Hirai N, Ohgushi M, et al. Improvement of endothelial function and insulin sensitivity with vitamin C in patients with coronary spastic angina: possible role of reactive oxygen species. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2000;35:1860.
Kugiyama K, Motoyama T, Hirashima O, Ohgushi M, Soejima H, et al. Vitamin C attenuates abnormal vasomotor reactivity in spasm coronary arteries in patients with coronary spastic angina. J Am Coll Cardiol. 1998;32:103.
Ness AR, Khaw KT, Bingham S, Day NE. Vitamin c status and undiagnosed angina. J Cardiovasc Risk. 1996;3:373.