Chest pain is a common reason for seeking cardiology advice. In many cases it is caused by non-cardiac conditions such as muscle strain or acid reflux, but it is important to exclude heart disease.

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A cardiology assessment can determine whether symptoms are related to the heart and whether further tests are required.

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Possible causes of chest pain

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Chest pain may be caused by several conditions including:

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• Coronary artery disease (angina)

• Inflammation of the chest wall

• Acid reflux or oesophageal spasm

• Pericarditis

• Anxiety or stress

 

Many people with chest pain have normal coronary arteries, but it is important to assess the risk properly.

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When to seek medical advice

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You should consider cardiology assessment if you experience:

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• chest discomfort on exertion

• chest tightness or pressure

• chest pain associated with breathlessness

• symptoms with a family history of heart disease

 

Urgent medical care should be sought for severe or persistent chest pain.

 

How chest pain is investigated

 

Assessment may include:

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• ECG

• Echocardiogram

• CT coronary angiogram

• Exercise testing / functional testing

• Blood pressure and risk assessment

 

A CT coronary angiogram is one of the most accurate non-invasive tests to exclude coronary artery disease.

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What happens during your consultation

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During your appointment, a full history will be taken and your cardiovascular risk assessed.

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Where appropriate, investigations can be arranged promptly to clarify the cause of symptoms and guide treatment.