Introduction
Chest pain is not always caused by the heart, but it should never be dismissed without considering the context. The nature of the pain, what brings it on and associated symptoms help guide the right next step.
Assessment and next steps
We consider whether discomfort occurs with exertion, breathing, meals, movement or stress, and whether it is associated with breathlessness, palpitations, sweating, nausea or a change in exercise tolerance. This helps distinguish an urgent presentation from one that can be assessed in a planned consultation.
If a heart cause is possible, tests may include an ECG, blood tests, an echocardiogram or imaging of the coronary arteries. The choice depends on the question, your history and the urgency of symptoms.
Our experience
- Sudden or persistent chest pain needs urgent medical assessment.
- Heart-related pain can feel like pressure, tightness or heaviness, but symptoms vary.
- Tests are chosen according to the clinical question, not routinely.
Patient note
“It is better to be assessed promptly for concerning chest pain than to try to work out the cause alone.”
FAQ
When should I call 999?
Call 999 for sudden chest pain or discomfort that does not go away, especially if you feel sweaty, sick, light-headed or short of breath.
Can I wait for a clinic appointment?
Do not wait for a routine appointment if chest pain is sudden, severe, persistent, or occurs with sweating, nausea, breathlessness or feeling faint: call 999.
What may be discussed at a planned assessment?
We will review the pattern of pain, risk factors and any previous tests, then decide whether an ECG, blood tests, echocardiogram or coronary imaging is appropriate.