Chest pain takes many different forms. From an ongoing dull ache to sharp pains that come and go, experiencing chest pain can make you worry that you’re having a heart attack.
While chest pain can indicate a heart attack, there are lots of other possible causes, and they’re not all life-threatening. Muscle strains, acid reflux, and even indigestion could cause chest discomfort, as pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong.
Chest pain has a variety of causes, but it’s not normal and you should never ignore it. Kunal Patel, MD and our cardiac team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute specialize in diagnosing and treating chest pain, and we’re here to help you figure out what’s causing your discomfort.
Possible causes of chest pain
Your chest includes the area on the front of your body, from your stomach to your shoulders. It contains lots of bones and muscles, and the two main organs in your chest are your heart and lungs.
A few common vascular conditions that may cause chest pain include:
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
Angina
Aortic dissection
Pericarditis
Pulmonary embolism
Sometimes, chest pain has nothing to do with your heart or vascular system. Other conditions that can cause chest discomfort include:
Acid reflux (heartburn)
Bronchitis or pneumonia
Gallstones
Muscle strain
Panic attack
Shingles
Different conditions cause different types of pain, but you shouldn’t try to self-diagnose your condition.
Making a doctor’s appointment for chest pain
If you notice mild-to-moderate chest pain without any other symptoms, schedule a cardiology appointment to have an exam. At NJ Cardiovascular Institute, we offer comprehensive diagnostic testing, including stress tests and echocardiograms, to identify any irregularities in your heart’s function.
Regular doctor’s appointments are important, even if you aren’t bothered by chest pain. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease are very common health issues that can cause heart problems – but they don’t have noticeable warning signs.
Dr. Patel and our team want to make heart health part of our patients’ lives. Our Heart Smart Program makes it easy to implement healthy lifestyle changes and improve your heart health one step at a time.
Emergency care for chest pain
Heart attack, pulmonary embolism, and other serious conditions are life-threatening and require emergency medical care. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you notice symptoms including:
Crushing or squeezing chest pain
Pain in shoulders or arms
Shortness of breath
Lightheadedness
Cold sweat
Nausea
Vomiting
If you’re unsure whether you or someone near you is experiencing a medical emergency, don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.
Chest pain isn’t normal, but experiencing it doesn’t mean you need to panic. Turn to Dr. Patel and our team at NJ Cardiovascular Institute for quality heart care. Call the New Jersey office nearest you or request your first appointment online today.
You Might Also Enjoy…
Understanding the 5 Most Common Types of Heart Disease
Your heart works tirelessly for you day and night, but do you know the warning signs when something is wrong? Learn about the five most common types of heart disease, what they mean for your health, and how to protect your heart.
4 Common Reasons for Needing a Stress Test
A stress test is a valuable tool for evaluating your heart’s performance under physical strain. Understanding what the test reveals and why physicians recommend it can help you feel confident and prepared if your doctor suggests it for you.
Don't Ignore Leg Pain: It Could Be Peripheral Artery Disease
Leg pain that occurs when you’re walking might feel like muscle strain, but it can be a warning sign of something more serious. Peripheral artery disease reduces blood flow to your legs, and recognizing it early helps protect your heart health.
New Year, New You: 5 Resolutions for a Healthier Heart
A new year is the perfect time to set meaningful health goals — and they don’t have to be complicated to be effective. These five heart-healthy resolutions can help you start the year strong and protect your cardiovascular health for the future.
Navigating Holiday Feasts: A Guide to Heart-Healthy Eating
Holiday celebrations often revolve around food — making the season challenge even the most disciplined heart-healthy habits. The good news is mindful choices make all the difference, and here’s how to enjoy the festivities and protect your health.