What causes chest pain?

You can develop chest pain from any number of causes, including conditions not related to your heart. In addition to CAD, heart-related chest pain may be a sign you’re having a heart attack, or you have pericarditis (inflammation of the pericardium).

Other conditions that cause chest pain include:

  • Acid reflux

  • Gallbladder problems

  • Pancreas problems

  • Chest muscle strains

  • Broken ribs

  • Collapsed lung

  • Pulmonary embolism (a life-threatening condition)

  • Lung infection

  • Anxiety

Though your chest pain may not be a serious medical concern, it’s not a symptom you should ignore. If your chest pain is sudden and severe, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for care. 

What happens during a cardiology chest pain evaluation?

When you visit Commonwealth Vein Center for a chest pain evaluation, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history. 

They conduct a physical examination and may request diagnostic tests to find the underlying cause of your chest pain. Testing may include:

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

An EKG is a painless, noninvasive test that measures your heart’s electrical activity.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that evaluates the structure and function of your heart. The test might help diagnose CAD, cardiac arrhythmias, valvular disease, or other structural problems that might explain your chest pain.

Angiogram

An angiogram is a specialized test that evaluates your heart and blood vessels. During this test, your provider injects a contrast dye into the blood vessels and then collects images of your heart and coronary arteries.

How is chest pain treated?

The Commonwealth Vein Center team customizes your chest pain treatment plan based on the underlying cause. Treatment may include lifestyle changes or medications to manage a specific heart condition.

When appropriate, the team may recommend surgical interventions to treat your heart condition.

For a chest pain evaluation from a skilled and compassionate team, call Commonwealth Vein Center or schedule a consultation online today. 

Chest Pain FAQ’s.

Chest pain is a common symptom that can arise from various health conditions. However, it is particularly concerning, as it may signal issues with your heart or lungs. The team of vein and vascular specialists at Commonwealth Vein Center offers comprehensive evaluations to identify the underlying cause of your chest pain and provide the appropriate treatment.

Call the location nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What is chest pain?

Chest pain refers to any discomfort in the area between your neck and your abdomen. The type of pain you experience often depends on the underlying cause and may sometimes radiate to your neck, shoulder, or jaw.

Heart-related chest pain may present with:

  • Pressure, tightness, or a burning sensation in the chest

  • Shortness of breath

  • Cold sweats

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • You may also develop a specific type of heart-related chest pain called angina, which typically occurs during physical activity. Angina can be a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD).