Chest pain is one of the most common and most worrying symptoms people experience. Some ignore it, thinking it is just gas or muscle pain. Others panic and fear a heart attack immediately. In our clinical practice in Pune, many patients ask, “Doctor, how do I know if my chest pain is serious?” This is a very important question.
In this blog, Dr. Kartik Bhosale, Best Cardiologist in Pune, explains in simple words the common causes of chest pain and when you should consult a heart specialist without delay.
What Is Chest Pain?
Chest pain can feel different for different people. It may be:
- Sharp or stabbing
- Heavy or pressure-like
- Burning sensation
- Tightness in the chest
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, or back.
Not all chest pain is related to the heart. But any unexplained chest discomfort should be evaluated properly.
Common Causes of Chest Pain:
1. Heart-Related Causes:
These are serious and require immediate attention.
- Angina – Reduced blood flow tothe heart muscles
- Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction) – Blocked coronary artery
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Inflammation of the heart lining (Pericarditis)
Heart-related chest pain often feels like pressure, heaviness, or squeezing. It may be associated with:
- Sweating
- Breathlessness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
If you experience these symptoms, consult a Heart Doctor in Pune urgently.
2. Gastric or Acidity-Related Causes:
Many patients assume all chest pain is “gas.”
Acidity or acid reflux can cause:
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Pain after meals
- Sour taste in the mouth
However, it is risky to self-diagnose. Sometimes, heart pain and gastric pain feel similar.
3. Muscle or Rib Pain:
Muscle strain, poor posture, or injury can cause localized chest pain.
This pain:
- Increasesinn movement
- Increases on pressing the area
- Improves with rest
Though usually harmless, proper evaluation is still recommended.
4. Lung-Related Causes:
Conditions like:
- Lung infection
- Pulmonary embolism
- Pleurisy
Can also cause chest discomfort with breathing difficulty.
When Should You Consult a Cardiologist?
You should immediately consult a cardiologist if:
- Chest pain lasts more than 10–15 minutes
- Pain spreads to the left arm or jaw.
- There is sweating or breathlessness.
- You have diabetes, high BP, or high cholesterol.
- There is a family history of heart disease.
- You are above 35 with risk factors.
Early evaluation can prevent major complications.
If you are unsure, it is always safer to consult an experienced Interventional Cardiologist for proper assessment.
What Tests May Be Needed?
After clinical evaluation, the following tests may be advised:
- ECG
- 2D Echo
- TMT (Stress Test)
- Blood tests
- CT Coronary Angiography
- Coronary Angiography (if required)
At the clinic, each test is recommended based on symptoms and risk profile. Unnecessary investigations are avoided.
Why Early Evaluation Matters?
Ignoring chest pain can be dangerous.
Many patients come late after ignoring warning signs for weeks. Early consultation improves survival, reduces heart damage, and prevents emergencies.
If treated on time, most heart conditions can be managed effectively with medicines or minimally invasive procedures.
Advanced Heart Care in Pune:
At Dr. Kartik Bhosale’s Cardiology Clinic, patients receive a structured evaluation for chest pain and other cardiac symptoms.
As a trusted Heart Specialist in Pune, Dr. Kartik Bhosale focuses on:
- Detailed clinical assessment
- Accurate diagnosis
- Evidence-based treatment
- Personalised care plans
- Preventive cardiology guidance
Whether your chest pain is mild or severe, proper examination helps you stay safe.
Conclusion:
Chest pain should never be ignored. Not every chest pain is a heart attack, but every unexplained chest pain deserves medical evaluation.
Timely consultation with the Best Cardiologist can help detect serious conditions early and provide the right treatment. If you are experiencing chest discomfort, do not delay. Early care can save your heart and your life.