Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical advice, and it can have many causes, both heart-related and non-heart-related. Knowing when chest pain needs urgent attention can make a real difference.
Severe, new or recurrent chest pain, especially when it comes with breathlessness, sweating, nausea, dizziness or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back, should be treated as a possible emergency. In such situations, it is important to seek urgent medical help and not wait to see if the pain passes on its own.
Not all chest pain is heart-related. Muscular strain, acid reflux and anxiety can also cause chest discomfort. However, distinguishing between these causes is best left to a doctor, since some heart-related causes can be serious even when the pain feels mild.
For non-emergency but recurring chest discomfort, a scheduled heart check-up that may include an ECG, 2D Echo or stress test can help a cardiologist understand the underlying cause and advise appropriate care.
This article is for general education and does not replace professional medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer. Related: Chest Pain & Heart Check-up.