Chest Pain Specialist

What is chest pain?

Chest pain can be anything from a sharp stabbing sensation to a dull ache. The pain may travel up your neck or down into one or both arms.

Many problems can cause chest pain. Some, like a heart attack, are life-threatening. 

If you’re experiencing unexplained chest pain or think you’re having a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

What heart problems cause chest pain?

There are many possible causes of chest pain, all of which require medical attention. Heart-related causes of chest pain include:

Heart attack

A heart attack happens when there’s a blockage in blood flow to the heart. This is often due to a blood clot.

Angina

Angina is chest pain from poor blood flow to the heart due to blockages in surrounding blood vessels. Angina can be a warning sign that a heart attack may happen soon.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac that surrounds your heart. This condition typically causes a sharp pain that worsens when you lie down or breathe.

Aortic dissection

Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that involves a tear in the main blood vessel that leads from your heart (the aorta).

In addition to heart problems, chest pain may be due to digestive issues like heartburn, lung disorders like a pulmonary embolism, sore muscles in your chest, and panic attacks.

What symptoms occur with heart-related chest pain?

Signs and symptoms that indicate your chest pain is associated with a heart attack or other heart problem include:

• A sense of pressure or tightness in the chest
• Intense pain that radiates in the back, neck, jaw, shoulders, and arms
• Pain that persists more than a few minutes, comes and goes, or worsens with activity
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Cold sweats
• Nausea or vomiting

Don’t attempt to diagnose chest pain on your own. Seek medical assistance as soon as you suspect you’re having a heart attack.

How is chest pain diagnosed and treated?

Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates is equipped with the most advanced technology to diagnose the cause of your chest pain. Your cardiologist may perform one or more of the following tests:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Echocardiogram
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac stress test
• Cardiac catheterization, or coronary angiogram

After arriving at an accurate diagnosis, Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates recommends the best approach to treatment for your specific needs. Treatment for chest pain may include medications or a procedure like angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery.

For comprehensive care of chest pain, call Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates or book an appointment online today.