Severe chest pain can be dangerous and should not be disregarded because it may be a sign of a cardiac condition such as a heart attack, particularly if it radiates to the arm or jaw or is accompanied by perspiration or dyspnea. Get emergency medical attention right away. Constipation, which can produce discomfort in the abdomen but does not explain significant chest pain, may be the cause of difficulty with bowel motions. To rule out life-threatening reasons, get a medical evaluation very away.