Have you been experiencing chest pain? Your West Monroe, LA, cardiologist, Dr. Virginia Gonzalez of Cardiovascular Diagnostic Center, can help you determine if your pain is a sign of a heart problem or is caused by another health issue.

When chest pain requires immediate action

Call 911 if you have any of these heart attack symptoms:

• Chest Pain: Many people who’ve had heart attacks describe the pain as crushing or squeezing or as if a weight is on their chests.
• Shortness of Breath: In addition to your chest pain, you may struggle to catch your breath.
• Other Pain: Pain in your jaw, neck, shoulder, arm, or stomach can also be a sign of a heart attack.
• Additional Symptoms: You may also sweat, or feel nauseated, lightheaded, dizzy, or anxious

Don’t wait to see if these symptoms get better. Go to the hospital immediately.

A heart problem isn't the only cause of pain

Your West Monroe, LA, heart doctor can help you find out what's causing your chest pain. Pain in your chest could be caused by:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD): GERD occurs when stomach acid flows backward into your esophagus, irritating the sensitive tissue that lines the esophagus. Chest pain, belching, nausea, a bad taste in your mouth, and a lump-in-the-throat sensation are common GERD symptoms.
• A Sprain or Strain: A sprained or strained muscle or ligament could be the source of your pain. Falls, injuries, or even bouts of coughing or vomiting could cause strains or sprains.
• Angina: Angina symptoms mimic those of a heart attack and are caused by underlying heart disease, like narrowing of the arteries. If you’re experiencing these symptoms for the first time, go to the emergency room.
• Costochondritis: Mild to severe chest pain can occur if the cartilage that connects your ribs to your sternum becomes inflamed.
• Asthma: Asthma makes it harder to breathe and may also cause pain in your chest and upper back.
• Lung Problems: Pleurisy, an inflammation of the lungs, can trigger chest pain, as can a blood clot in the lungs, a collapsed lung, or pneumonia.
• Stress: Chest pain isn’t always a sign of a physical health problem. The pain can occur if you’re stressed or experiencing a panic attack.

Don’t ignore your chest pain! Call your cardiologist in West Monroe, LA, Dr. Gonzalez of Cardiovascular Diagnostic Center, at (318) 338-3540 to schedule your appointment.