Everyone experiences chest pain, so much so that sometimes it is almost an automatism to dismiss it. However, chest pain could be your body warning you of a heart-related issue that needs immediate attention. At Maryland Cardiology Associates in Greenbelt, Maryland, the expert cardiologists provide cutting-edge and individualized care for anyone experiencing chest pain due to a cardiovascular condition. Learn more about chest pain support by booking an appointment online or by phone today.

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What are the leading causes of chest pain?

Chest pain can come as a consequence of a series of issues, including but not limited to:

  • Cardiovascular problems, including angina, pericarditis, or a heart attack
  • Chronic pain symptoms and sore muscles
  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD), leading to leg pain and swelling
  • Injured, bruised, or broken ribs
  • Inflammation in the cartilage of your rib cage (costochondritis)
  • Lung disorders
  • Heartburn
  • Pancreas or gallbladder issues

You may also experience chest pain as a result of a panic attack or stress. With panic attacks, you may experience rapid breathing and heart rate, sweating, nausea, and dizziness as well.

How do I know if my chest pain is heart-related?

The best course of action to determine whether your chest pain is heart-related is to consult with a cardiologist at Maryland Cardiology Associates.

If your chest pain relates to your heart, you may experience a series of additional symptoms, such as:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold sweats
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Shooting pain
  • Pain that is related to physical exertion
  • Pain in your neck, back, shoulders, arms, or jaw
  • Burning and tightness in your chest

Since the symptoms accompanying heart-related chest pain are so broad, you should contact an expert cardiologist to determine its root cause.

How do you treat chest pain?

At Maryland Cardiology Associates, your cardiologist identifies the best course of action based on the underlying cause of your chest pain.

Remember, chest pain doesn’t always mean that you are having a heart attack, so your cardiologist might recommend a series of diagnostic tests, including an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, blood tests, chest X-rays, and more, to evaluate your overall heart health and devise the most individualized treatment option for you.

Your cardiologist might recommend certain medications, including blood thinners, aspirin, thrombolytic drugs, and artery relaxers, to ensure that the proper amount of blood reaches your heart.

They might also suggest a lifestyle regiment that aligns with healthy heart function. For instance, you may need to adjust your diet, manage your stress, and exercise regularly.

If your chest pain is related to a more dangerous condition, your cardiologist might recommend surgical interventional, like angioplasty and stent placement.

No matter the underlying cause of your chest pain, your cardiologist at Maryland Cardiology Associates comes up with a personalized care regimen that protects you in the long run.

Get in touch with Maryland Cardiology Associates by phone or through the online booking tool today to get rid of your chest pain.