When is chest pain related to your heart? Red flags and signs to look for

Chest pain is a common symptom that can range from mild discomfort to a severe and alarming sensation. While not all chest pain is heart-related, it’s crucial to identify potential red flags that may indicate a cardiac issue. Knowing when to seek medical attention could be life-saving.

Is all chest pain heart-related?

Chest pain has many possible causes, and not all of them are linked to the heart. Common non-cardiac causes include:

• Musculoskeletal pain: Strained chest muscles or rib injuries.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions like acid reflux or oesophageal spasms.
• Respiratory problems: Such as pleurisy or pneumonia.

However, heart-related chest pain should always be ruled out first due to its potentially life-threatening implications.

Red flags: When chest pain might be heart-related

Heart-related chest pain often presents in distinct ways. Key red flags include:

1. Pressure or tightness: A feeling of heaviness or squeezing in the chest, often described as "an elephant sitting on the chest."
2. Radiating pain: Discomfort spreading to the arms, jaw, neck, back or shoulders.
3. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, even at rest or with minimal exertion.
4. Nausea and sweating: Accompanying cold sweats, dizziness or vomiting.
5. Worsening with exertion: Pain that increases during physical activity and eases with rest.
6. Lasting pain: Discomfort that persists for more than a few minutes or comes and goes in waves.

Conditions to be aware of

Heart-related chest pain can result from various conditions, including:

• Angina: Caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, typically due to coronary artery disease.
• Heart attack (myocardial infarction): A blockage in the blood supply to the heart, requiring immediate attention.
• Pericarditis: Inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart, causing sharp pain that may worsen with deep breaths or lying flat.
• Aortic dissection: A rare but serious condition where the inner layer of the aorta tears, causing sudden, severe chest or back pain.

What to do if you suspect heart-related chest pain

If you or someone else experiences symptoms suggestive of a heart problem:

• Call emergency services immediately: Don’t wait to see if symptoms improve, especially if red flags are present.
• Chew an aspirin: If you are not allergic, taking aspirin may help thin the blood while waiting for medical help.
• Rest and remain calm: Avoid physical exertion until help arrives.

Chest pain is not always a sign of a heart problem, but recognising the red flags of cardiac-related chest pain is critical. If you experience symptoms such as pressure, radiating pain, or breathlessness, seek medical advice without delay. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes in heart-related conditions. Always prioritise your health and consult a healthcare professional for any unexplained chest discomfort.