#Deep upper chest discomfort how to

#Deep upper chest discomfort how to

However, see your GP for a proper diagnosis and for advice about how to relieve the pain and tackle any underlying cause. This information should give you an idea of whether these conditions may be causing your chest pain. Some common causes of chest pain are outlined below. Most chest pain is not heart-related and isn't a sign of a life-threatening problem.

If there is no improvement five minutes after the second dose, call 999 and ask for an ambulance. A second dose can be taken after five minutes if the first dose is ineffective. If you have an angina attack and you've previously been diagnosed with the condition, take the medication prescribed for you. Symptoms that last more than 15 minutes, occur at rest, and include sweating and vomiting are more likely to be caused by a heart attack.ĭial 999 immediately to request an ambulance if you think you or someone else is having a heart attack, or if you have the symptoms above and haven't been diagnosed with a heart condition. If you have previously been diagnosed with angina, the pain may also be relieved by your angina medication. The main differences between these conditions is that chest pain caused by angina tends to be triggered by physical activity or emotional stress, and gets better with rest after a few minutes. They can also cause additional symptoms, such as breathlessness, nausea, paleness and sweating.

a heart attack – where the blood supply to part of the heart is suddenly blockedīoth of these conditions can cause a dull, heavy or tight pain in the chest that is central, or band-like the pain can spread to the arms, neck, jaw or back.angina – where the blood supply to the muscles of the heart is restricted.Chest pain related to a heart problem is commonly caused by: Heart problemĬhest pain is often a problem that is not caused by a heart condition. If your own GP surgery is closed, you should contact your local out of hours service if you are concerned and need advice as to whether you need assessment or treatment. If the discomfort is not sudden and severe, or has resolved, it may be more appropriate to see your GP. Paramedics would prefer to be called out to find that an honest mistake has been made than to be called out when it is too late to save a person's life. Do not worry if you have any doubts about whether it is a heart attack. If you think you could be having a heart attack, call 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.

you are at risk of coronary heart disease – for example, you smoke, are obese, or have high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol.you also have other symptoms, such as breathlessness, nausea, sweating, or coughing up blood.the pain spreads to other parts of your body, such as your arms, back or jaw.the pain is central or band-like and feels heavy, pressing or tight.You should call 999 for an ambulance immediately if you develop sudden severe chest pain, particularly if: It does not include every possible cause, but describes the most common reasons for chest pain. It should give you an idea of what is causing your chest pain and whether you need to get emergency help or see your GP. The information below should not be used to self-diagnose your condition. It is important to try to identify if the cause is serious or life threatening. Chest pain can be caused by anything from muscle pain to a heart attack and should never be ignored.