The important principle is simple:
When symptoms are severe, sudden, unusual, or rapidly getting worse, do not rely on guesswork. Seek professional medical help.
Chest Pain Should Never Be Ignored
Chest discomfort is one of the symptoms people are often tempted to explain away.
Someone might assume it is indigestion.
Another person may blame anxiety.
Someone else may think they pulled a muscle.
Sometimes those explanations are correct.
But chest pain or pressure can also be associated with serious cardiovascular problems.
Heart attacks do not always look exactly like they do in movies.
Some people experience pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or discomfort rather than dramatic pain.
Other possible symptoms can include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or discomfort that spreads to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw.
Symptoms can also differ between individuals.
That is why severe or unexplained chest symptoms deserve prompt medical attention.
The safest approach is not to diagnose yourself.
