Chest Pain
Up to 40% of people have chest pain at some point in their lives. While chest pain doesn’t always equal heart problems, in some cases, it’s the first warning of a heart attack or other life-threatening condition. You can take charge of your heart health by coming to Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown Manhattan, for chest pain evaluation and diagnosis with renowned New York cardiologist Mark Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC.
What Symptoms Can Chest Pain Cause?
Chest pain is a broad term that encompasses a variety of sensations beyond sharp pain. Individuals experiencing chest pain may report symptoms such as:
Burning sensation in the chest
Crushing or squeezing feeling
Tightness or constriction
Persistent pressure
Intermittent (sporadic) pain
Pain that worsens with physical exertion
Radiating discomfort that may extend to the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms, or back
In addition to chest discomfort, associated symptoms may include:
Cold sweats
Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
Fatigue or unusual tiredness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea or vomiting
What Are the Common Causes of Chest Pain?
Chest pain can result from a wide range of medical conditions, varying from mild to life-threatening. Common cardiovascular causes include:
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Pericarditis (inflammation of the heart’s lining)
Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
Valvular heart disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Aortic dissection (tear in the aorta)
Hypertension (high blood pressure) can also diminish blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain.
Non-cardiac causes may include:
Pneumonia or lung infections
Panic attacks or anxiety disorders
Asthma or other respiratory conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux
If you experience persistent or unexplained chest pain, it is critical to seek medical evaluation promptly. Madison Avenue Cardiovascular provides comprehensive diagnostic services to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate interventions.
How Is Chest Pain Diagnosed?
At Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine, Dr. Meyer follows a meticulous diagnostic process that includes:
Physical Examination: Evaluation of your symptoms and vital signs.
Medical History Review: Assessment of personal and family medical history, lifestyle habits, and risk factors.
Diagnostic Testing: Depending on the clinical findings, you may undergo tests such as:
Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart)
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
Blood tests (to check for cardiac enzymes)
Exercise stress testing
Chest X-ray
Following diagnosis, Dr. Meyer will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and health needs.
What Are the Treatment Options for Chest Pain?
Treatment for chest pain typically involves a combination of medical management and lifestyle modifications. Dr. Meyer’s comprehensive approach includes:
Medications:
Blood thinners to prevent clots
Thrombolytic therapy to dissolve existing clots
Nitroglycerin for chest pain relief
Medications for managing hypertension, high cholesterol, or arrhythmias
Lifestyle Changes:
Nutritional counseling for heart-healthy eating
Structured exercise programs
Stress management techniques, including yoga and mindfulness practices
Interventional Procedures:
Angioplasty and Stenting: To open blocked arteries.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG): To reroute blood flow around blocked arteries.
Early and effective management of chest pain can prevent serious complications such as heart attacks and heart failure. Dr. Meyer is committed to helping you achieve optimal cardiovascular health through customized care and ongoing support.
Meet Dr. Mark Meyer
Mark L. Meyer, MD, FACP, FACC, is a board-certified physician and among the leading cardiologists and internists in New York. He is the founder of Madison Avenue Cardiovascular & Concierge Medicine in Midtown, Manhattan, serving patients throughout New York City. Dr. Meyer integrates different approaches to medicine to provide his patients expert and personalized care at every step of the health journey.
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