If you're experiencing chest pain, it's important to take it seriously. Here's what you should do, depending on the situation
If
it's sudden, severe, or feels like pressure/tightness:
Call emergency services
immediately (911 or local emergency number). You may be having a heart
attack or another serious condition. Get help if you have:
- Chest pain that spreads to your arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, vomiting, or cold sweats
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- A history of heart disease
If
it’s mild or uncertain but persistent:
See a doctor as soon as possible. Some causes are less urgent but still important to treat,
such as:
- Acid reflux / GERD
- Muscle strain
- Anxiety or panic attacks
While
waiting for help (if non-emergency):
- Stay calm
and rest. Stress or activity can make it worse.
- Avoid exertion
— sit down and breathe slowly.
- If prescribed nitroglycerin (for heart disease), take
it as directed.
- Chew an aspirin
(325 mg), if you suspect a heart issue and you're not allergic or at
risk of bleeding.
When
to NOT ignore chest pain
Even
if it goes away or seems minor, always follow up with a healthcare provider.
Some heart problems can show up with only mild symptoms, especially in women,
older adults, and people with diabetes.
Absolutely
— here’s a more detailed breakdown of possible causes of chest pain,
what they feel like, and what to do in each case
Heart-Related Causes (Most serious — rule these out first)
1. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
- Pain feels like: Pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning. Often described as "an elephant sitting on my chest."
- May radiate: To jaw, neck, shoulders, back, or arms (especially the left).
- Other symptoms: Shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness.
2. Angina
- Pain feels like: Similar to a heart attack, but usually triggered by activity or stress and relieved by rest.
- Other signs: Happens in predictable patterns.
- Action: Rest, take nitroglycerin if prescribed. Still see a doctor.
3. Pericarditis
- Pain feels like: Sharp/stabbing, worse when lying down or breathing deeply.
- Caused by: Inflammation of the sac around the heart.
Lung-Related Causes
4. Pulmonary Embolism
- Pain feels like: Sudden, sharp pain; often with shortness of breath.
- Other symptoms: Coughing (sometimes blood), rapid heartbeat.
- Action: Emergency! This is a life-threatening blood clot in the lungs.
5. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
- Pain feels like: Sudden, sharp chest pain, especially after injury or without cause.
- Other symptoms: Trouble breathing, one side of the chest rising less.
- Action: Emergency care needed.
6. Pneumonia or Pleurisy
- Pain feels like: Sharp or aching pain, worsens with deep breaths or coughing.
- Other symptoms: Fever, cough, fatigue.
- Action: Doctor evaluation — may need antibiotics or anti-inflammatories.
GI and Other Causes
7.
GERD (Acid Reflux)
- Pain feels like:
Burning sensation behind the breastbone, often after eating.
- Other symptoms:
Sour taste, belching, worse when lying down.
- Action:
Try antacids; see a doctor for persistent symptoms.
8.
Esophageal Spasms or Rupture
- Pain feels like:
Squeezing chest pain, hard to distinguish from a heart attack.
- Action:
Medical evaluation needed urgently — can be serious.
Musculoskeletal Causes
9. Costochondritis
- Pain feels like: Tenderness and pain around the breastbone, worsens with pressing or certain movements.
- Action: Over-the-counter pain relief; see a doctor to confirm.
10. Muscle strain
- Pain feels like: Localized, sore, and worsens with movement or deep breathing.
- Caused by: Heavy lifting, coughing, or injury.
- Action: Rest, ice, and NSAIDs like ibuprofen.
Anxiety/Panic Attacks
11. Anxiety or Panic Disorders
- Pain feels like: Sharp or tight, may come with a feeling of dread, fast heartbeat, shortness of breath.
- Other signs: Tingling in hands, sweating, fear of dying.
When to Always Seek Medical Attention
Even if you're unsure, go to a doctor or ER if:
- It's your first time feeling chest pain
- Pain lasts more than a few minutes
- It doesn’t go away with rest or medicine
- You have risk factors (high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, family history)