Causes of chest pain
Chest pain has various possible causes, all of which need medical attention. The POC groups them by body system so patients can understand why the right route may be emergency, cardiology, respiratory medicine, digestive care or another service.
Heart-related causes
Angina, heart attack, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, pericarditis and aortic dissection.
Lung-related causes
Viral bronchitis, pneumonia, pneumothorax, pulmonary embolus or bronchospasm.
Gastrointestinal causes
Heartburn, acid reflux, swallowing problems, gallstones or inflammation of the pancreas or gallbladder.
Muscle or bone causes
Sore muscles, chronic pain syndrome, broken or bruised ribs, or compression fractures.
Symptoms to describe to your doctor
Heart-related symptoms
- Fullness, pressure, tightness or burning in the chest.
- Searing or crushing pain that radiates to the neck, back, jaw, shoulders or arms.
- Pain lasting more than a few minutes or worsening with activity.
- Cold sweats, shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
Other symptoms
- Acidic or sour taste in the mouth.
- Pain that occurs when eating or swallowing.
- Pain that changes with body position, coughing or deep breathing.
- Tenderness when pressing on the chest or persistent pain.
Diagnosis of chest pain
At the Emergency Department, the physician may ask questions to understand the cause and order tests to rule in or rule out heart-related conditions.
Electrocardiogram
Records the heart's electrical activity.
Chest X-ray
Examines the heart, blood vessels and lungs.
Echocardiogram
Records moving images of the heart.
Blood tests
Measures enzyme levels and other markers.
Stress tests
Measures heart function after exertion.
Angiogram
Looks for blockages in specific arteries.
Treatment of chest pain
Treatment depends on the cause. Medication may include aspirin, artery relaxers, blood thinners, thrombolytic drugs, acid suppressing medicines or antidepressants for panic attacks. Other treatment routes may include cardiac catheterization, stents, balloons or surgical repair of arteries.