Chest pain can be an indication of a heart attack or other cardiac ailment. Still, it can also be a symptom of problems related to respiration, digestion, bones and muscles, and other physical and mental health variables. Chest pain must always be considered serious, even if it's mild or you don't suspect a life-threatening condition. You could be experiencing a myocardial infarction if you have abrupt chest pain with the following indicators: shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, or a cold sweat.
If these indicators persist for more than five minutes, you should call 911. Chest pain can be caused by angina, which is pressure like your heart is being constricted. Angina does not inflict permanent damage to heart tissue. A heart attack is a sharp, stabbing pain, tightness, or pressure, whereas myocarditis is mild chest pain, chest pressure, difficulty breathing, edema in the legs, and a racing heart.
Pericarditis is a harsh or dull pain that usually starts in the middle or left side of the chest. An aortic aneurysm may not cause exact symptoms, or your chest may feel sensitive to touch. Aortic dissection or rupture is sudden, sharp, continual pain in the chest or upper back, pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or trouble breathing. Cardiomyopathy causes moderate pain after eating or exercise. Valve disease can cause pain, pressure, or tightness, typically with exertion.