04/29/2026
Chest pain is never something to ignore — but not all chest pain is the same. Some chest pain is a sign of a serious cardiac emergency. Other times it may be related to stress, acid reflux, or muscle strain. Knowing the difference can be life-saving.
Signs your chest pain may be a medical emergency:
▪ Pressure, squeezing, or tightness in the chest
▪ Pain that spreads to your arm, jaw, neck, or back
▪ Shortness of breath
▪ Sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness
▪ Sudden dizziness or fainting
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Not all chest pain requires a 911 call — but it does require attention.
If you have been experiencing recurring or unexplained chest discomfort, don't brush it off. Your primary care provider can help identify the cause and get ahead of potential problems before they become serious.