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Hearing the words “heart attack” can be enough to make anyone's pulse quicken. It’s a serious condition, no doubt, but not all chest pain is a heart attack.Whether you feel a tightness that comes and goes or a sharp jab after a big meal, it’s important to understand the potential causes of chest pain and take the right steps without unnecessary panic.

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In this brief article brought to you by Capitol Cardiology Associates, we explore what might be causing that discomfort in your chest, the differences in heart attack symptoms between men and women, and what to do when in doubt.

Causes of Chest Pain

Chest pain isn’t always heartrelated. Many conditions can cause discomfort in the chest, and they range from mild to serious. Common causes include:

  • Heartburn or Acid Reflux: When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.
  • Muscle Strain: Lifting heavy objects or intense exercise can strain the chest muscles.
  • Anxiety or Panic Attacks: These can cause tightness in the chest, rapid breathing, and palpitations.
  • Lung Conditions: Issues like pneumonia, a pulmonary embolism, or pleurisy.

This is not an exhaustive list of potential causes, but it should highlight that there’s always some investigation necessary. A licensed heart doctor is best equipped to make that diagnosis.

Recognizing a Heart Attack

A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. Without treatment, parts of the heart muscle can die. It’s important, therefore, to recognize the symptoms – and these can vary in men and women.

Men may experience intense chest pressure, pain radiating to the arm or jaw, sweating, and shortness of breath. In women, symptoms may be more subtle. Women may notice nausea, fatigue, back pain, or a feeling of indigestion – often without severe chest pain.

We stress these differences because heart attack symptoms in women are sometimes mistaken for less serious issues.

When to Ring the Alarm

Not all chest pain is an emergency, but certain symptoms demand immediate attention. It’s probably time to seek the expertise of licensed cardiologists when there’s:

  • Persistent or worsening pain lasting more than a few minutes.
  • Pain spreading to the arms, shoulders, neck, or jaw.
  • Accompanying symptoms like nausea, dizziness, sweating, or shortness of breath.
  • Sudden and unexplained fatigue or a sense of doom.

If you experience any of these, don’t wait! Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Treatment for Chest Pain

Chest pain treatment will depend on the cause of the chest pain. This is why a professional diagnosis by a healthcare professional is non-negotiable. For heart attacks, doctors may administer clot-busting drugs, perform angioplasty to open blocked arteries, or insert stents.Medications like beta-blockers, statins, or blood thinners may be prescribed to manage heart health and prevent further issues.

Even if chest pain turns out to be non-cardiac, the right treatment can provide relief and peace of mind. Contact Capitol Cardiology if you experience frequent chest pain, have a family history of heart attacks, or are concerned about your health.

Review of Exceptional Healthcare Services

Jose Mendoza

My experience with the Capitol Cardiology Associates office was outstanding. From the time I initially talked to Dr Shetty on the phone to the moment I checked out. I had a very pleasant encounter with the front desk personnel. The staff is kind, gentle and informative. Pamela was very efficient, skilled and smart.  Took time to explain the procedure and broke it down in easy terms. I recommend this group with no reservations to whoever needs a cardiologist.

Bobbie Shockley

Even the office was excited busy, the staff remains super courteous and respectful. Dr. Shetty and his students were kind and efficient. Check out is a breeze. Those with disabilities were treated with great respect. I feel well cared for here at Capitol  Cardiology.

Isatu Sesay

Dr Raj Shetty. I wanted to thank you so so much, my blood pressure is normal now praise God.All because of you, my physician cannot get it in control then he Reffered me to you. I thank God and you because it’s all in control now. May God continue to bless your hand , you are so patient.

Jeanette McQueen

I had an excellent experience at Capitol Cardiology Associates. From the moment I walked into the suite everyone was friendly and courteous. When I was taken in the back the Medical Assistant was very professional and made me feel comfortable. My Cardiologist, Dr. Venugopal, had an excellent bedside manner and reassured me that all was okay. The checkout receptionist was very helpful as well. She made sure I had all the documents I needed and provided a copy to my primary care physician. Well done guys!??