Chest pain: which doctor to see
Chest pain should never be ignored, but there is no need to panic either: more often the cause is muscles, the spine or digestion, not the heart. A cardiologist or general practitioner will sort it out in person, with an examination and an ECG.
Common causes
- Muscle strain after exertion or an awkward movement
- Intercostal neuralgia and problems of the thoracic spine
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Heart and vessel disease — less common, but the first thing to rule out
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Pressing or burning pain behind the breastbone lasting more than 5–10 minutes — call 103 immediately
- Pain spreading to the left arm, jaw or back
- Pain with shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea
- Pain with a racing or irregular heartbeat, dizziness
- Sudden sharp pain with difficulty breathing
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
What to bring to the visit
- Old ECGs and heart test results — they make comparison easy
- A list of medicines you take
- Blood pressure and pulse readings for recent days, if you have them
- A description of the pain: when it appears — on exertion, at rest, on movement
Frequently asked questions
It hurts when I press on it or twist my torso — is it the heart?
Pain that depends on movement and pressure is more often muscular or spinal. But do not rule out the heart on your own: get an ECG and see a doctor.
Cardiologist or general practitioner?
If the pain comes with exertion, you have shortness of breath or you are over 40, start with a cardiologist. Otherwise a general practitioner is fine: they will examine you and refer you if needed.
More in “Chest and heart”
All symptomsThe information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.