PUBLISHED ON
July 10, 2018 at 12:48 AM
Why the exact timestamp matters
- Historical accuracy – Keeps the blog’s timeline tight.
- Reader curiosity – Knowing the exact moment feels almost like uncovering a secret.
- Search engine finesse – A clear date stamp boosts discoverability.
Quick recap
So if you’re looking back or forward, this is the precise marker that tells you when everything unfolded. Happy reading!
What should you do if you experience chest pain?
Feeling Chest Pain? Here’s What to Do!
Don’t panic. If you notice any chest discomfort, the first step is to reach out to your family doctor or a cardiologist right away. Their expertise can determine whether it’s a mild issue or something that needs urgent care.
When the Pain Gets Real
If the pain feels sharp, intense, or you’re cramping up, head straight to the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department. There, medical professionals can quickly rule out a heart attack using quick scans and thorough investigations—so your worries get addressed promptly.
Getting the Right Specialist
Should the A&E assessment find that the pain isn’t from a heart attack, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist. These experts will dig deeper, using targeted tests to uncover the true cause of your chest pain and outline a clear plan for relief.
- Take the first step—call your family doctor or a cardiologist.
- If the pain escalates, rush to A&E for fast, lifesaving checks.
- Once cleared, trust a specialist to pinpoint and address the root cause.
Remember, early action is key. Don’t shrug off chest discomfort; act quickly, and let the professionals do their magic.
What is causing your chest pain?
What’s Behind that Sudden Chest Ache?
Ever had one of those annoying chest pains that pops up out of nowhere? Dr Ooi Yau Wei, a seasoned cardiologist from Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, breaks down the mystery and tells you how to know if you’re in trouble.
Chest Pain Isn’t Always a Heart Attack
Aside from heart issues, many culprits can set your chest on fire:
- Stomach: Think vomiting, bloating, a burning sensation – it’s as if the stomach is throwing a tantrum.
- Lungs: Wheezing, shortness of breath, a cough that turns into a struggle, and pain that flares up when you inhale deep – lungs might be under the weather.
- Bone or Muscle: Pain that’s locked to one spot and triggers when you bend or cough often signals a musculoskeletal injury.
- Heart: A tightening, constricting feeling that seems to ripple down your neck, jaw, or left arm is heart‑related. It usually pops up after exertion, big meals, or when the weather drops.
Pulse‑Checking for Heart‑Crime
When it’s a heart attack, things get intense:
- The pain is heavier than a weight bench, lasts longer than 15 minutes, and can even strike you while you’re chill‑ing.
- Sudden shortness of breath, dizziness, and a shower of sweat are classic red flags.
- You’re not just dealing with a lump in the chest – it’s a full-body emergency that demands immediate help.
Quick Take‑aways
- Heart pain should feel like a squeezing grip.
- If you can’t pinpoint it or it spreads to other parts of your upper body, tread carefully.
- When it ties up with breathing issues, a cough, or a heavy meal, call for help.
- And always remember: if the pain is persistent, intense, or comes at rest, get medical aid right away.
Keeping your chest health in check can be as simple as listening to your body – it’s quite good at whispering warnings.
In Review by
Dr Ooi Yau Wei – Cardiologist, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Dr Steve Tan – Head of A&E, Parkway Hospitals Singapore
