What could be causing your chest pain?
According to Dr Ooi Yau Wei, cardiologist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, not all chest pain is heart-related. It can also stem from issues with the stomach, lungs, bones or muscles.
Stomach-related chest pain
Chest pain due to digestive issues often comes with:
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Discomfort
- A burning sensation in the chest
These may signal conditions like acid reflux or gastritis.
Lung-related chest pain
If chest pain is accompanied by:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Persistent coughing
And worsens with deep breaths or coughing, a lung condition such as pneumonia or pleurisy could be the cause.
Musculoskeletal (bone or muscle) pain
Pain that:
- Is localised to a specific spot
- Worsens with movement, touch, deep breaths, or coughing
May indicate a muscle strain or rib injury.
Heart-related chest pain
Heart-related chest pain is typically:
- A squeezing, strangling or pressure-like sensation
- Difficult to localise
- Radiating to the neck, jaw, or left arm
It tends to worsen with:
- Physical exertion (e.g. climbing stairs)
- Heavy meals
- Cold weather
It may also be accompanied by:
- Giddiness or dizziness
- Shoulder aches
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Signs of a possible heart attack
You experience chest pain that:
- Is severe and persistent (lasting more than 15 minutes)
- Occurs even at rest
- Comes with shortness of breath, dizziness or heavy sweating
What to do if you’re experiencing chest pain
If you experience chest pain, don’t delay getting medical attention. Head to the nearest Urgent Care Centre (UCC), where doctors can quickly rule out serious conditions like a heart attack using on-site scans and tests. If needed, you'll be referred to a specialist for further care.
Acting fast is crucial — early treatment can make a life-saving difference and help prevent long-term heart damage.
