If you are experiencing pain on the left side of the chest, you may think that you are experiencing a heart attack. Chest pain can be a symptom of a heart attack or heart disease, but it can also be a symptom of other issues.
While left-sided chest pain does not always mean that you are having a heart attack, it is important to seek medical attention right away if you are experiencing any type of pain in your chest it is important to seek medical attention right away. If the chest pain does have something to do with your heart, every second counts.
If you have unexplained pain in your chest accompanied by weakness or dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and shooting pain in the abdomen, neck, jaw, arms, or back, getting medical attention immediately is important. Here are 8 other possible causes of chest pain on the left side of your chest.
1. Angina
Angina is a symptom of a heart issue but is not necessarily a disease in itself. Angina causes chest discomfort or pain. It can cause pressure as your heart is not getting enough oxygen into the blood. A person who suffers from angina may also experience discomfort in the neck, jaw, back, shoulders, and arms.
If you are experiencing this type of discomfort or pain it is important to make sure that you seek medical attention. It is important to determine that the underlying condition is diagnosed and treated properly. Some diagnostic testing for angina may include chest x-rays, blood tests, a stress test, or an electrocardiogram. The treatment for angina will depend on what is causing it.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, and possible cardiac procedures as needed. Your doctor will determine the best options available to treat your underlying conditions and to help ease the discomfort you have been experiencing.