Is chest pain always a sign of heart attack?

Chest pain is a symptom that can range from mild discomfort to a medical emergency. While it is often associated with heart-related issues, including heart attacks, not all chest pain stems from the heart.

Dr Mukesh Goel, Senior Consultant in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals provides insights into the common causes of chest pain and when to seek medical attention.

Common causes of chest pain

1. Non-cardiac causes

Not all chest pain is heart-related. Many other conditions can mimic cardiac symptoms, Dr Goel said:

• Gastrointestinal issues:
  Acid reflux or heartburn can cause a burning sensation in the chest, which may be mistaken for a heart attack.
• Musculoskeletal problems:
  Injuries or strains in the chest muscles or ribs can lead to sharp, localised pain. The discomfort often worsens with movement or breathing.
• Anxiety and panic attacks:
  Stress-induced chest pain is common during anxiety or panic episodes. Symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, but these usually resolve quickly once the episode subsides.

Stress-induced chest pain is common during anxiety or panic episodes. (Source: Freepik)

2. Heart-related causes

Chest pain of cardiac origin is usually serious and warrants prompt medical evaluation, said Dr Goel.

• Angina:
  This type of chest pain occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart. It is often triggered by physical activity or stress and feels like a squeezing or pressure sensation in the chest.

• Heart attack:
  A heart attack typically presents as pressure or tightness in the chest, often spreading to the arms, back, neck, or jaw. Other symptoms include:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness
  • Sweating
  • Nausea

When to seek medical help

Chest pain should always be approached with caution, especially when it is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other alarming symptoms, said Dr Goel. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
• Pain that spreads to other areas, such as the arms or jaw
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or fainting

Even if the pain subsides, consulting a doctor for a proper evaluation is essential to rule out underlying conditions.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.