When you think of chest pain, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? If you answered “heart attack,” you aren’t alone. While more than 8 million people visit the emergency room each year for pain in their chest, JAMA Network reports that only 5.5% of those visits result in a serious heart-related issue. 

Knowing when it’s time to visit the ER in Kissimmee, Poinciana, or Davenport, FL for chest pain can prove difficult. Dr. Aamir Javaid and his trained staff at the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care are experts at diagnosing and caring for patients experiencing chest pain. 

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Symptoms of a heart attack vary from one patient to the next. For some, the pain is severe, while others report only mild chest pain. 

Common symptoms related to heart attacks include: 

• Pain, tightness, or pressure in the chest 
• Aching or squeezing sensation in the middle of the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Pain spreading to head or extremity 
• Abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, or indigestion, 
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting

Female patients experiencing heart attacks report chest pain as a secondary symptom. For women, symptoms like jaw pain, nausea, or back pain are more severe than chest pain. 

What Should I Do If I’m Having Chest Pain?

If you or someone you love is experiencing chest pain, do not ignore the symptoms. Seek emergency medical attention if the pain lasts longer than five minutes. 

If the pain subsides in a few minutes or comes and goes, Dr. Javaid at the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care in Kissimmee, Poinciana, or Davenport, FL can help diagnose your chest pain.

If you or someone you love has been experiencing chest pains, and you live in the Kissimmee, Poinciana, or Davenport, FL area, call (407) 572-8900 to schedule an appointment. Do not ignore the symptoms. Dr. Javaid and the Institute for Advanced Cardiovascular Care are here to help.