Stop. Read this first.
- Crushing, squeezing, or heavy pressure in the center or left chest — call 911
- Pain radiating to jaw, left arm, or back with sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath — call 911
- Sudden, severe, tearing chest or back pain — call 911
- Pain that comes and goes with movement, breathing, or pressing on the chest — likely musculoskeletal
- Burning chest pain after eating or lying down — likely reflux
Why chest pain is so hard to self-diagnose
The chest contains your heart, lungs, esophagus, large blood vessels, ribs, muscles, and nerves. Pain from any of these can feel similar — and a heart attack doesn't always feel like a Hollywood heart attack.
Women, older adults, and people with diabetes are more likely to have 'atypical' heart attack symptoms — fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, jaw or back pain, instead of classic chest pain.
Common non-emergency causes
Acid reflux (GERD): burning, often after meals or when lying down. Usually relieved by antacids.
Musculoskeletal pain: sharp pain that worsens with deep breaths, twisting, or pressing on the chest. Often follows exercise or coughing.
Anxiety or panic attack: tightness, racing heart, sense of doom, often in the setting of stress. Real, common, and treatable.
What we can do at urgent care
We can do an EKG to check your heart rhythm, listen for lung issues, and help sort out non-cardiac causes. If anything is concerning, we'll get you to the ER fast — and call ahead so they're ready for you.
Come to urgent care for:
- Chest pain that's clearly muscular (worse with movement or pressing)
- Burning chest pain that responds to antacids (suspected reflux)
- Chest tightness with cold, cough, or known anxiety
- Lingering chest discomfort you want evaluated soon
Go to the ER (or call 911) for:
- Crushing, squeezing chest pressure (call 911)
- Pain radiating to jaw, arm, or back with sweating
- Shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness with chest pain
- Sudden, severe, tearing pain in chest or upper back
- You have known heart disease and this feels like before
Frequently asked
What does a heart attack actually feel like?
Often pressure, squeezing, or fullness — not always sharp pain. It can come with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain in the jaw or arm. When in doubt, call 911.
Can stress really cause chest pain?
Yes. Anxiety and panic attacks are common causes of chest pain in younger adults — but it's never something to assume. Get evaluated to be sure.
Should I drive myself to the ER?
If you suspect a heart attack — no. Call 911. Paramedics can start treatment immediately and get you in faster.