Chest Pain

Chest Pain services offered in Sarasota, FL

Chest pain is never a symptom you should ignore, whether it’s a constant dull ache or a sharp jolt that occurs every now and then. At Gulfshore Personalized Care in Sarasota, Florida, Thomas Arne Jr., DO, FACC, uses advanced diagnostic tools, such as cardiovascular screenings and echocardiogram testing, to track and monitor changes to your heart health. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about chest pain.

Chest Pain Q & A

What causes chest pain?

Chest pain is an umbrella term that describes general discomfort in the space between your neck and abdomen. While chest pain is not always indicative of an underlying condition, it can become a serious health concern without treatment.

Common causes of chest pain include:

Coronary artery disease (CAD)

CAD is a chronic disease that causes the walls of your arteries to clog with plaque, a fat-like substance that can restrict blood flow to your heart.

Angina

Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when your heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood, and CAD is one of the most common causes of this type of pain.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is a rare condition that causes the tissue around the heart, called the pericardium, to inflame. Many people with pericarditis experience sharp chest pain that can radiate through the shoulder and neck.

Coronary artery dissection

Coronary artery dissection causes the wall of the coronary artery to tear open. Without treatment, this condition can lead to a heart attack.

Heart attack

A heart attack is a complete blockage of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, causing it to stop beating. This potentially life-threatening condition usually requires emergency treatment and follow-up care.

How does chest pain feel?

Chest pain is not a one-size-fits-all symptom. Depending on the cause of your discomfort and the severity of the condition, you may experience:

A sharp, stabbing pain
A constant dull ache
Pain that radiates through the shoulders, neck, and jaw
Squeezing or tightness
Burning sensation
Fullness in the chest
Heavy pressure

The type of pain you have can help Dr. Arne identify the cause of your condition and create a treatment plan that addresses your symptoms.

What are the treatments for chest pain?

The best treatment for chest pain depends on your underlying cause. If you have a mild to moderate condition, like angina, Dr. Arne may recommend:

Exercising more frequently
Drinking less alcohol
Quitting smoking
Taking medications or supplements
Reducing stress in your life

Dr. Arne may also encourage you to schedule more frequent visits to track and monitor your heart health.

Call Gulfshore Personalized Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about chest pain.