Symptoms of Heart Pain
The most common symptom of heart pain is a feeling of tightness, pressure, or squeezing in the center of the chest. This type of pain is known as angina. Angina can also cause pain in the shoulder, arm, neck, jaw, or back. It can also cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and nausea.
Causes of Heart Pain
Heart pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, angina, arrhythmia, and pericarditis. Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of heart pain, and it occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed due to plaque buildup. Heart attack occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the arteries that supply blood to the heart, blocking the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Other causes of heart pain include angina, arrhythmia, and pericarditis.
Diagnosis of Heart Pain
If you experience any of the symptoms of heart pain, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will perform a physical exam, take a medical history, and order tests to diagnose the cause of your heart pain. Tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, echocardiogram, or cardiac catheterization.
Treatment of Heart Pain
Treatment for heart pain depends on the underlying cause. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, can help reduce the risk of heart pain. Medications, such as beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and statins, can help reduce the risk of heart attack and angina. Surgery may be necessary in some cases, such as if blocked arteries need to be widened or repaired.