Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people come to our emergency department — and one of the most anxiety-inducing symptoms for patients. The truth is: not all chest pain is cardiac. But some of it absolutely is, and knowing the difference can save your life.
Common Causes of Chest Pain
Cardiac Causes
- Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- Unstable angina
- Pericarditis (inflammation of heart lining)
- Aortic dissection (rare, life-threatening)
Non-Cardiac Causes
- Acid reflux (GERD) or gastritis
- Costochondritis (rib cartilage inflammation)
- Pulmonary embolism
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Muscle strain
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack — Call Emergency Immediately
- ⚠️Pressure, squeezing, or crushing pain in the centre or left side of the chest — often described as "an elephant sitting on my chest"
- ⚠️Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, back, or both arms
- ⚠️Shortness of breath — with or without chest pain
- ⚠️Cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness alongside chest discomfort
- ⚠️Symptoms lasting more than 15–20 minutes that don't improve with rest
If you have these symptoms: call 112 or go to the nearest emergency immediately. Do not drive yourself.
Heart Attack in Women: Different Symptoms
Women are less likely to experience the classic "chest crushing" pain. They more commonly present with:
- Unusual fatigue (especially new or worsening)
- Nausea or indigestion that doesn't resolve
- Jaw pain or upper back pain
- Shortness of breath without significant chest pain
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
How to Tell Cardiac Pain from Non-Cardiac Pain
| Feature | Likely Cardiac | Likely Non-Cardiac |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Central/left chest, radiating | Localised, pinpointable |
| Onset | With exertion or at rest | After meals, or with movement |
| Duration | >15 minutes, doesn't resolve | Brief, or with position change |
| Associated | Sweating, breathlessness, nausea | Belching, worse after food |
| Relief | Not with antacids | May improve with antacids |
This table is a general guide only. Never self-diagnose chest pain — always seek medical evaluation.
What to Do While Waiting for Help
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable position — do not exert yourself
- Loosen tight clothing
- If the person is conscious and not allergic, aspirin 300mg (chewed) may be given while waiting for emergency services
- If they lose consciousness and stop breathing, begin CPR if trained
- Do not leave them alone
HeallthMaxx Emergency: +91-9779712323
Our 24/7 emergency department in Kharar is equipped with ECG, cardiac monitoring, and a trained emergency team. If you or someone you know has chest pain — don't wait. Call us or head to our emergency department immediately.
