Chest pain is a prevalent cause of individuals visiting the emergency room (ER). When discomfort occurs in the chest, it is normal to be concerned about potentially significant cardiac issues. For those who have had chest pain, it is an issue that should not be underestimated. It may manifest as a sensation of tightness, burning, or pressure in the chest, extending to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It may manifest suddenly or gradually —both scenarios can be equally alarming. The chest houses our most vital organ, the heart, so it’s natural to feel anxious when something seems wrong. Our medical team at Friendswood Hospital understands that chest pain can be alarming. However, not all cases of chest pain require a visit to the emergency room. Our chest pain experts in Friendswood, TX, examine the situations where seeking emergency medical attention for chest pain is necessary. Continue reading to learn more.
Causes of Chest Pain That Require Emergency Attention
Conditions affecting the vital organs of the chest—such as the heart, lungs, or aorta—can pose a significant risk to life. These include:
- Heart attack – Blocked blood flow to the heart.
- Angina – Reduced blood flow to the heart.
- Pulmonary embolism – Blood clot in the lungs.
- Aortic dissection – Tear in the aorta.
- Collapsed lung – Sudden chest pain with shortness of breath.
- Pericarditis – Inflammation around the heart.
- Esophageal rupture – Tear in the esophagus.
- Severe asthma attack – Chest tightness with breathing trouble.
- Pneumonia – Pain worsens with breathing, often with fever.
- Arrhythmias – Irregular heartbeats causing discomfort.
Causes of Chest Pain That Are Not an Emergency
Several common causes of chest pain are not risky, especially those associated with the gastrointestinal (GI) system, muscles, and bones in the chest. These causes include:
- Acid reflux or GERD
- Muscle strain
- Costochondritis (rib cartilage inflammation)
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Indigestion
- Shingles (before rash)
- Gas or bloating
- Bruised or fractured ribs
- Pleurisy (lung lining inflammation)
- Respiratory infections
Though not urgent, these may still need medical attention.
Symptoms of Chest Pain That Require a Visit to the ER
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience chest pain accompanied by other symptoms, as this may indicate a heart attack. Contact Friendswood Hospital if you have chest pain along with:
- Severe chest pain – Intense or crushing pain, especially in the center of the chest.
- Pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw – Often associated with heart attacks.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing along with chest pain.
- Nausea or vomiting – Accompanying chest pain, especially in heart attacks.
- Cold sweat – Sudden sweating with chest discomfort.
- Lightheadedness or fainting – Feeling dizzy or losing consciousness.
- Pain that lasts more than a few minutes – Persistent or worsening chest pain.
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations – A feeling of a racing or skipping heart.
If you experience any of these, seek emergency care immediately.
Experiencing Chest Pain? Seek Immediate Care at Friendswood Hospital in Friendswood, TX
Friendswood Hospital is committed to providing outstanding service and accurate billing for necessary services to our community. We are equipped to diagnose and treat you whenever needed. Our facility is fully prepared to address a range of conditions, from allergies to chest pain, with on-site laboratories, X-ray, ultrasound, and CT services—all in one location. Contact us for any emergency. We are here to serve you.
