Chest Pain Specialist

What is chest pain?

Chest pain shows up in many ways, ranging from a sudden stabbing sensation to a dull ache. Though chest pain can be a sign of a serious heart-related problem like a heart attack, many other causes aren’t life-threatening. 

What causes chest pain?

Many things can cause chest pain. Aside from issues with your heart, many types of chest pain are due to musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and lung-related problems. For example, chest pain can result from sore muscles, viral bronchitis, or acid reflux. 

The team at Premier Cardiovascular Consultants treat all types of heart-related causes of chest pain, including:

• Angina, which is due to poor blood flow to the heart
• Heart attack, which is a result of blocked blood flow to the heart
• Aortic dissection, a life-threatening condition that involves a tear in the aorta
• Pericarditis, which is inflammation of the tissue around the heart
• Myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle
  
  

All causes of chest pain require medical attention. You should call your doctor right away any time you experience unexplained chest pain. If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

What are the symptoms of heart-related chest pain?

Many patients who experience chest pain due to a heart-related condition describe the pain as a general sense of discomfort. You may be experiencing a heart condition if you have the following symptoms:

• Chest pressure or tightness
• Pain in your back, jaw, or arm
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Cold sweats
  
  

It’s difficult to distinguish between heart-related chest pain and other types of chest pain on your own. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. 

How is chest pain diagnosed and treated?

First, your Premier Cardiovascular Consultants provider asks about your symptoms and medical history. They may perform several diagnostic tests, including:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests
• Computerized tomography angiography
  
  

After they diagnose your condition, they develop an individualized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, treatment for chest pain may include medications, such as blood thinners, and lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise. Surgical procedures, such as opening blocked arteries with stents or balloons, may also be necessary.

For patient-centered treatment for chest pain, call Premier Cardiovascular Consultants or request an appointment online today.