Chest pain is a feeling of discomfort or pain that occurs anywhere along the front of your body, from your neck down to your upper abdomen. The way chest pain feels can differ from person to person, ranging from a sharp stab to a dull ache. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and how doctors diagnose it can help you better understand what’s happening. Here are some typical symptoms and advice on when to see a healthcare professional:
What Are the Symptoms?
Other symptoms may accompany the feeling of chest pain. Recognizing these associated signs offers a more complete picture of what is happening in your body. Some individuals may feel dizzy or lightheaded, as if they are about to faint. This sensation might occur alongside chest discomfort.
Shortness of breath is another symptom that may present itself. You might find it challenging to take a full, deep breath. This can happen when you are at rest or during physical activity. In some instances, a person might experience cold sweats. This is a sudden onset of perspiration, even when you are not feeling hot or exerting yourself.
Nausea or a general feeling of sickness in your stomach is also a possible accompanying symptom. These signs may appear together or individually. It is wise to listen to your body and take these symptoms seriously, as they may be an indication of an underlying health condition that requires prompt attention.
What Are the Causes?
Many different conditions are associated with chest pain, some of which are related to the heart. Heart disease is a broad term that covers various conditions affecting the heart’s structure and function. One potential cardiac cause is coronary microvascular disease.
This condition affects the heart’s smallest coronary arteries. In this disease, the tiny arteries do not dilate properly, which reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. This reduction in blood flow can cause pain, especially during periods of physical exertion or emotional stress.
How Is it Diagnosed?
One standard test is an electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG. This non-invasive procedure records the electrical activity of the heart. During an EKG, small electrodes are attached to your chest, arms, and legs. These sensors detect the electrical signals your heart produces with each beat. The test provides information about your heart rate and rhythm, and it can show signs of a heart attack or restricted blood flow.
What Treatment Options Exist?
Once a diagnosis is made, a treatment plan is developed based on the underlying cause of the chest pain. A doctor might prescribe medications to lower blood pressure, manage cholesterol, or prevent blood clots. The specific medication depends entirely on the individual’s diagnosis. For specific structural heart issues, a procedure might be recommended. Minimally invasive cardiac catheterization is one such option. Specialists can use this technique to open blocked arteries or repair certain heart defects.
Schedule an Exam for Chest Pain
Getting a professional medical evaluation is a practical way to understand what’s causing your symptoms and explore your treatment options. A detailed exam allows your healthcare provider to develop a personalized care plan just for you. If you’re experiencing chest pain, we’re here to help. Contact a clinic today to schedule an appointment with a specialist.