Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain is discomfort, pressure, aching, or squeezing felt anywhere between the neck and upper abdomen. It represents one of the most critical diagnostic presentations in medicine, ranging from benign muscular strain to life-threatening acute coronary syndromes, pulmonary embolism, or aortic dissection.

• Cardiac: Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack), Angina Pectoris, Pericarditis, Myocarditis, Aortic Dissection.
• Pulmonary: Pulmonary Embolism, Pneumothorax, Pneumonia, Pleurisy.
• Gastrointestinal: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Esophageal Spasm, Peptic Ulcer.
• Musculoskeletal & Other: Costochondritis, Intercostal Muscle Strain, Panic Disorder.

Seek IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE (Dial Emergency Services) if chest pain is crushing, associated with breathlessness, cold sweat, radiating to the left arm or jaw, or occurs with sudden dizziness. Schedule urgent outpatient consultation if chest discomfort occurs predictably with exertion and resolves with rest.