Chest Pain Evaluation
Chest pain is a symptom that requires careful evaluation because it has multiple causes, some of which may be related to the heart and coronary arteries. The evaluation depends on the nature and duration of the pain, any accompanying factors, medical history, and appropriate tests to determine the cause and level of risk.
No, chest pain can result from cardiac, respiratory, muscular, or digestive causes, so it is important to have the symptoms accurately assessed medically.
It may appear as pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the middle of the chest, and may extend to the arm, shoulder, or jaw, especially during exertion.
The assessment begins by identifying details of the pain, medical history, and risk factors, and may then include an electrocardiogram and laboratory tests or imaging studies depending on the case.
If the pain is severe, sudden, or persistent, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, excessive sweating, dizziness, or fainting, emergency medical care should be sought immediately.
Symptoms alone cannot always be relied upon; the symptoms of several conditions may be similar, and therefore tests may be necessary to reach the correct diagnosis.