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 The sharp, burning sensation hits you. It’s chest pain. You start to worry. Should
you call the doctor, go to the ER, or take an antacid? Is it simply heart burn
or something worse?
Reasons for Chest Pain
Chest pain is a common complaint as well as concern for many people. It typically
includes any pain or discomfort you might feel between your neck and upper
chest area. The source of the pain could be from a variety of organs and/or tissues
throughout your body. Minor, less worrisome causes can simply result from an
extra spicy meal, which leads to indigestion and heartburn, or a strained
muscle in the ribcage.
The more serious causes of pain related to your heart can include angina, heart
attack, aortic dissection, or inflammation of the heart. Lung problems, such as
pneumonia, asthma, and blood clots, can also cause chest pain. Regardless of
the cause of your pain, it is important to know the signs that signal a medical
emergency.
Signs of Something Serious
There are a few signs to keep in mind if you are experiencing chest pains. Ask
yourself these simple questions to decide whether your pain is serious. If you
find yourself saying yes to any of these, have someone call 9-1-1 as soon as
possible.
Do you feel a sudden crushing sensation in your chest?
- Is the pain in your jaw, left arm or between your shoulder blades?
- Is your heart racing? Are you feeling dizzy? Nauseous?
- Is your chest pain sudden and you feel short of breath especially after not moving
for some time (such as after a long plane ride)?
Remember that you have increased risk of heart attack if you are overweight, smoke, have
high cholesterol, live with diabetes, have heart disease or a pre-existing heart condition, or have a
family history of heart disease.
Concerned about your heart health? For free physician referrals and health information
from a registered nurse, call our 24-hour Consult-A-Nurse line at 1-877-442-2362. For more information,
visit the Central Florida Cardiac and Vascular Institute online or call 407-518-3811.
Sources:
About Chest Pain. (NLM/NIH)
Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack (NHLBI/NIH)
Related Posts:
Nutrition and Cardiovascular Health
What Is a Heart Attack?
What Is Heart Failure?
Tags: 911, cardiac arrest, Central Florida Cardiac & Vascular Institute, CFCVI, chest pain, emergency, Heart attack, heart disease
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