While you may get mild chest pain occasionally, experiencing sudden, unexplained sharp chest pain can be terrifying and alarming. Persistent chest pain that worsens over time may signify a heart attack that needs immediate medical care. The Louisiana Heart and Vascular specialists offer chest pain Covington treatments for all types of chest pain, ensuring to treat the underlying cause to prevent recurrence of the pain.
What should you know about chest pain?
Chest pain refers to mild ache or persistent sharp, stabbing pain in the chest area. This pain may travel down your arms or up your neck in some cases. While experiencing chest pain once in a while may seem ordinary, persistent pain may indicate a severe underlying lung or heart disease.
Factors that contribute to chest pain include rib injuries, collapsed lung, swallowing disorders, heartburn, angina, and pulmonary embolism. Pain due to heart attacks can be life-threatening, making it a medical emergency. If you are prone to anxiety or panic attacks, you may also experience chest pains.
When should you talk to your physician about chest pain?
Chest pain resulting from heartburn or muscle tension resolves with over-the-counter medications. But suppose the pain persists or intensifies over time and does not respond to treatment. In that case, you may need to inform your Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute specialist for a diagnostic evaluation.
The severity of chest pain may vary depending on the trigger, but you may not know the exact cause without a medical assessment. Shortness of breath, dizziness, tightness, pressure or burning in your chest, cold sweats, and nausea may indicate heart-related chest pain. Other forms of chest pain may cause difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, a sour taste in your mouth, and tenderness in your chest.
How does your doctor diagnose chest pain?
During your appointment at Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute, Dr. Aduli conducts several tests to determine the underlying cause of your discomfort. He may also order blood work to inspect your heart and detect any damage due to heart attacks.
He may also use chest X-rays to evaluate your lungs and detect pneumonia or a collapsed lung. He may also use an electrocardiogram to assess your heart’s electrical activity. After determining the cause of your pain, Dr. Aduli may educate you on the available treatment options and recommend the most effective treatment.
How can you alleviate chest pain?
Your treatment highly depends on the cause of your symptoms. The Louisiana Heart and Vascular Institute experts address the underlying issue rather than treat your symptoms. They begin with non-invasive treatments before advancing to minimally invasive treatment options.
Your provider may recommend artery relaxers to promote blood flow and minimize the pressure in your chest. If you have anxiety or panic attacks, Dr. Aduli may recommend antidepressants to alleviate your symptoms. He may also refer you to a therapist for cognitive behavioral therapy. Other non-invasive treatments include aspirin, acid-suppressing medications, and blood thinners.
Dr. Aduli may recommend bypass surgery, lung reinflation, angioplasty and stent placement, and emergency dissection pair for severe medical conditions.
Call Dr. Aduli or book your spot online today to explore more about chest pain.
