Chest Pain
Chest pain deserves respect. This page is not a substitute for emergency care.
Chest pain ranges from harmless (acid reflux, muscle strain) to immediately life-threatening (heart attack, pulmonary embolism, aortic dissection). If your symptoms match any red flag below, call emergency services now — do not book a video consultation.
When to worry
Seek urgent medical care for any of the following:
- Crushing or squeezing chest pain, especially with exertion
- Pain radiating to the jaw, arm, or back
- Shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea with chest pain
- Sudden, severe tearing chest or back pain
- Chest pain with fainting or palpitations
- Any chest pain in someone with a history of heart disease
Safe self-care
Reasonable first steps while you wait for or decide on a consultation:
- If ANY red flag is present: stop reading and call emergency services
- For clearly reflux-related burning after meals: sit upright, sip water, avoid trigger foods
- For clearly musculoskeletal pain reproducible on movement: rest, ice, OTC anti-inflammatory
- Do not self-diagnose cardiac pain — book a Cardiologist same-day if in doubt
Which specialist treats chest pain?
Chest Pain — FAQ
Should I book an online consultation for chest pain?
Only if red flags are absent and the pain is mild, intermittent, and clearly reproducible (e.g. on deep breath or movement). Otherwise go to the emergency room.
What tests will a cardiologist order?
Typically an ECG, blood tests including troponin, and often an echocardiogram or stress test. Some of these can be arranged after a video consultation.
Other symptoms
This page is general information, not medical advice for any specific person. If in doubt, book a consultation or seek emergency care.