Understanding Chest Pain
Chest pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek a Cardiologist’s opinion, yet its causes range widely from entirely benign musculoskeletal strain to serious cardiac conditions requiring prompt treatment. Dr Navin Chandra provides thorough, evidence-based evaluation to distinguish between these causes and deliver clear, personalised answers.
Cardiac chest pain typically arises when the heart muscle does not receive sufficient blood supply. This may present as angina a squeezing or pressure-like discomfort often triggered by exertion or, in more acute cases, as symptoms of a heart attack. Non-cardiac causes, including acid reflux, costochondritis, and anxiety, can produce similarly distressing symptoms and equally deserve specialist attention.
Symptoms
- Tightness, pressure or squeezing in the chest
- Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw or neck
- Shortness of breath accompanying chest discomfort
- Chest pain triggered by physical activity or stress
- Sharp pain that worsens on breathing or lying down
- Persistent aching or burning sensation in the chest
Common Causes
- Stable or unstable angina
- Coronary artery disease
- Aortic valve disease
- Inflammation of the heart muscle - pericarditis or myocarditis
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Musculoskeletal chest wall pain
Diagnostic & Treatment Options
Dr Chandra’s approach to chest pain begins with a comprehensive clinical history, physical examination, and a targeted investigation plan tailored to each patient’s risk profile. A systematic diagnosis is central to ensuring the right treatment is delivered without delay.
- Resting and ambulatory ECG monitoring
- Exercise stress testing (treadmill or pharmacological)
- Echocardiography (resting and stress)
- Coronary CT angiography
- Cardiac catheterisation and angioplasty (PCI, coronary stenting)
- Medication optimisation for angina
- Lifestyle and cardiac rehabilitation advice
- Onward referral for cardiac surgery if/when indicated
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I seek urgent attention for chest pain?
Any chest pain that is severe, sudden, or accompanied by breathlessness, sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw should be treated as a medical emergency. Dial 999 immediately. For recurring or exertional chest discomfort that does not suggest an acute event, booking a private Cardiology consultation with Dr Chandra is the appropriate next step.
What will happen at my initial chest pain consultation?
Dr Chandra will take a detailed history of your symptoms, medical background, cardiac risk profile evaluation. A physical examination will be performed, and investigations beginning with an ECG — will be arranged on the same day where possible. The aim is to provide a clear diagnosis and management plan within your first appointment.
Can anxiety or stress cause chest pain?
Yes. Psychological stress and anxiety can produce genuine chest pain through muscular tension and hyperventilation. However, it is important that a cardiac cause is excluded before attributing chest discomfort to anxiety. Dr Chandra takes a holistic approach, ensuring both cardiac and non-cardiac possibilities are appropriately assessed.
How quickly can I be seen at the Parkside Suite, Ascot?
Dr Chandra’s team aims to offer appointments within a short notice period at The Parkside Suite, Heatherwood Hospital, Ascot. Patients from Ascot, Windsor, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead, and surrounding areas are welcome. Please contact the clinic directly on +44 (0) 1344 621 111 or via the online booking form to arrange a convenient time.