Is Your Chest Pain Serious? Warning Signs to Look Out For
By: Bec Harris
Chest pain can be frightening. Sometimes it’s nothing serious, but sometimes it signals a life-threatening problem. Dr. Stuart Arbuckle, explains why chest pain should never be ignored.
“Chest pain is never a good thing. It’s just not always a bad thing,” Dr. Stuart explained. The problem is knowing the difference. Without tests like an EKG or blood work, even doctors can’t be sure. That’s why any chest pain deserves attention.
Common Causes
Chest pain isn’t always a heart attack. It can also be caused by:
- Angina
- Pericarditis
- Blood clots in the lungs
- Pneumonia
- Heartburn or reflux
- Muscular or rib issues
- Anxiety or panic attacks
Still, heart problems remain the biggest concern. “Any kind of chest pain should be investigated,” Dr. Stuart stressed.
When to Call for Help
If pain is sudden, severe, or unlike anything you’ve felt before, call 000 immediately. “You should be getting yourself to the hospital. Don’t drive. Call an ambulance. They can give lifesaving drugs on the way,” he advised.
Waiting it out is dangerous. “We don’t want people saying, ‘I’ll just sleep on it.’ There might not be a morning,” Dr. Stuart warned.
Red Flags to Watch
Chest pain can feel different for everyone. However, classic warning signs include:
- Crushing or heavy pain in the centre of the chest
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, or back
- Sudden onset during exertion
- Shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea
- Pain that wakes you at night
“No good doctor is going to be grumpy with a patient coming in with chest pain even if it’s just heartburn,” he said.
Myths and Misconceptions
Many people believe heart pain only shows up on the left side. That’s false. “Heart pain can be central, right-sided, or even just in the jaw,” Dr. Stuart explained.
Another myth? Fit people can’t have heart attacks. “Fitness reduces risk, but it doesn’t remove it,” he said. Even indigestion can mimic heart pain. That’s why tests are essential.
Prevention Matters
While not all chest pain is heart-related, lifestyle changes help reduce risk. Healthy eating, exercise, managing cholesterol, and regular GP checkups make a difference.
Dr. Stuart summed it up simply: “Better safe than sorry. No doctor will criticise someone for coming in with chest pain that turns out to be heartburn.”
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
Feature image: Canva Free
