Skip to main content
123-456-7890 Book Online

Chest Pain Specialist

Accessibility1 Our Services Chest Pain

Accessibility1

Cardiologists & Vein Care located in Santa Monica, CA

Chest pain can be a scary experience, but it also a crucial signal that something may be wrong. Dr. Test and Dr. Alan Kim have a great deal of experience diagnosing chest pain, and the team at Access in Santa Monica, California, can help you determine your next steps. Don’t let chest pain go unattended; schedule a diagnostic appointment as soon as you encounter sensations of pressure, squeezing, or aching in your chest. Online scheduling is available, or you can simply call the office to find a convenient appointment time.

Chest Pain Q & A

What is chest pain?

Chest pain comes in many forms, none of which should be ignored. Some people experience a sharp, stabbing pain. Others report a dull, aching type of pain.

Chest pain can begin in your chest before extending into your back, arms, neck, or jaw. It can be a frequent event or only happen a couple of times.

The following symptoms may accompany chest pain related to a heart issue:

  • Sensations of chest pressure, tightness, or fullness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or weakness
  • Cold sweats
  • Nausea or vomiting

What are some causes of chest pain?

Chest pain can be caused by numerous conditions, some of which are heart-related and some that aren’t. Heart-related chest pain could be a sign of:

  • Heart attack
  • Aortic dissection
  • Angina
  • Pericarditis

Digestive, lung-related, and other causes of chest pain include:

  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Panic attack
  • Fractured ribs
  • Collapsed lung
  • Shingles

How is chest pain diagnosed?

Your doctor begins by assessing your risk factors and clinical history to determine likely causes. There are multiple diagnostic tools used to get to the bottom of your chest pain.

Echocardiogram (EKG) is a test that uses sound waves to create an image of your heart. Your doctor might use a special camera passed down your throat to gain a clearer view of your heart muscle.

Stress testing is another excellent diagnostic option and involves using special electrical leads to measure your heart activity while you exercise. Some stress tests use medication to prompt your heart to beat faster.

Additional diagnostic tools like CT scans and angiograms are available by referral.

What treatments can help with chest pain?

Your treatment path depends on the causes of chest pain, and your overall health. Medications can address restricted blood flow, depression, blood clots, and acid indigestion. Medications bring a risk of side effects, which is why lifestyle modification is an integral part of treating chest pain.

Making changes to your diet, exercise, and any harmful habits can go a long way toward reducing chest pain and strengthening your heart health. Your physician works with you to create an individualized care plan.

In some cases, surgery is the best way to address heart-related chest pain. Once recovery is complete, maintaining healthy heart habits can ensure lasting positive results.

If you encounter chest pain, schedule an appointment right away to determine your next steps.

 

Services