Chest pain is a common symptom that can be caused by a range of medical conditions, some of which can be life-threatening. Recognizing and responding to chest pain emergencies can make all the difference when every second counts.
In this article, we will share and discuss the causes of chest pain emergencies and how to differentiate between emergency and non-emergency chest pain so you know how to respond to chest pain emergencies.
Causes of Chest Pain Emergencies
Chest pain may be nothing to worry about or it can also be a symptom of a variety of medical conditions. Here are some of its common causes:
Heart attack
When the flow of blood carrying oxygen to the heart muscle is partially or completely obstructed, it leads to a heart attack.
Heart attack symptoms can vary and may depend on different factors, but some common signs and symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Additional symptoms indicative of a heart attack include nausea or vomiting, lightheadedness, and sweating. However, you should also note that not all individuals who experience a heart attack will have all of these symptoms, and some may not have any symptoms at all.
Angina
Angina is a condition where the heart is not receiving enough blood and oxygen to meet its needs. This often occurs when a partial blockage occurs in any of the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. This can cause chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like a tightness, pressure, or squeezing sensation. Some people may also feel pain in their arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back.
Angina can be caused by physical activity or emotional stress, and it is commonly associated with these triggers. However, it can also occur spontaneously without any obvious trigger. It may even happen during periods of rest or while sleeping. It is usually relieved by rest or medications that improve blood flow to the heart.
However, if angina is not properly managed, it can progress to a more severe form of chest pain known as unstable angina or even a heart attack.
Pulmonary embolism
A pulmonary embolism is a severe health condition that can occur when a blood clot, originating from the legs or pelvis, migrates to the lungs and obstructs the blood flow. This can cause significant harm to the lungs, leading to potential breathing difficulties, chest pain, or in severe cases, heart failure.
The symptoms of a pulmonary embolism vary, but they often include a sudden onset of chest pain, which may feel sharp or stabbing, and may be more severe when taking deep breaths. Shortness of breath is another common symptom, ranging from mild to severe and can make breathing difficult. Some people may also experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating, or coughing blood.
Aortic dissection
The inner layer of the aorta tears, which is the major blood vessel that transports oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This tear causes blood to flow between the layers of the aorta’s wall, weakening the vessel’s structure and reducing blood flow to the rest of the body.
The symptoms of aortic dissection typically come on suddenly and can be severe. The most usual symptom is sudden and severe chest pain which may be described as a tearing or ripping sensation. Some people may also experience a rapid or weak pulse or a difference in blood pressure between the arms.
Other potential causes
Other potential causes of chest pain emergencies include:
- Pericarditis: a condition where the sac surrounding the heart becomes inflamed, leading to chest pain that is typically exacerbated when taking deep breaths. Additional symptoms may include fever, fatigue, and coughing.
- Aortic aneurysm: weakening of the aortic wall, resulting in chest or back pain, shortness of breath, and a rapid heartbeat. It is a severe condition requiring immediate medical attention.
- Pneumothorax: also referred to as a collapsed lung, is caused by the presence of air between the lung and chest wall, resulting in chest pain, shortness of breath, and a rapid heartbeat.
If you experience chest pain or discomfort, it is critical to seek medical attention promptly. Only a healthcare professional can diagnose the underlying cause of your chest pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.
How to Differentiate Between Emergency and Non-Emergency Chest Pain
Being able to distinguish between emergency and non-emergency chest pain is crucial because it can help you make an informed decision about seeking medical attention, potentially preventing serious complications and improving your chances of a full recovery.
Emergency chest pain
Chest pain that is severe, sudden, or accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or sweating is usually an emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
Non-emergency chest pain
Chest pain that is mild, intermittent, or related to a known medical condition may not be an emergency. However, it should still be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How to Respond to Chest Pain Emergencies
If you or someone else is experiencing chest pain that could be an emergency, call 911 immediately. While waiting for medical help to arrive, it’s important to stay calm and help the person remain calm. Have the person sit or lie down and loosen any tight clothing.
When to Call 911 or Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you or someone else is experiencing any of the following symptoms along with chest pain, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention:
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- A sudden change in behavior
Common Treatments for Chest Pain Emergencies
The treatment for chest pain emergencies will be determined by the specific cause of the chest pain. For example, in the case of a heart attack, treatment may involve medication, medical procedures to restore blood flow to the heart, and lifestyle changes.
On the other hand, different treatments may be needed for other causes of chest pain, such as medication, surgical procedures, or other medical interventions. Ultimately, the approach to treatment will depend on the individual and their unique needs.
Advantages of Going to an Urgent Care Clinic for Chest Pain Emergencies
Recognizing and responding to chest pain emergencies can save lives. This is why understanding the causes of chest pain emergencies, knowing how to differentiate between emergency and non-emergency chest pain, and knowing when to call 911 or seek immediate medical attention can help ensure that you or your loved ones receive the prompt appropriate care needed in an emergency.
Taking note of emergency rooms or clinics that provide urgent care for chest pain, such as SilverLake ER is especially crucial. This is because urgent care clinics can provide prompt medical attention for chest pain emergencies and often provide these services with shorter wait times than hospitals.
