Chest Pain

2 April 2025

Chest pain can be a concerning symptom with a range of possible causes, from mild muscle strain to serious heart conditions. While not all chest pain is life-threatening, it is important to seek medical advice if you experience persistent, severe, or unexplained discomfort.

At The New Foscote Hospital, our experienced specialists provide fast, accurate diagnosis and expert treatment to determine the cause of your chest pain and ensure you receive the right care.

What Causes Chest Pain?

Chest pain can originate from the heart, lungs, digestive system, muscles, or nerves. Common causes include:

Angina – Reduced blood flow to the heart due to coronary artery disease
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) – A blocked artery cutting off blood supply to the heart
Pericarditis – Inflammation of the protective sac around the heart
Aortic Dissection – A rare but life-threatening tear in the main artery

Pulmonary Embolism (Blood Clot in the Lungs) – Can cause sudden, sharp chest pain and difficulty breathing
Pneumonia or Lung Infections – Often accompanied by fever and cough
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung) – Can lead to sudden, severe pain

Digestive Causes

Acid Reflux (GORD) – Stomach acid irritating the oesophagus
Hiatal Hernia – When part of the stomach pushes into the chest area
Gallbladder Issues – Such as gallstones, which can cause pain in the upper chest and abdomen

Musculoskeletal & Other Causes

Muscle Strain or Rib Injury – Can mimic heart-related chest pain
Costochondritis – Inflammation of the cartilage in the ribcage
Panic Attacks & Anxiety – Can cause chest tightness, rapid breathing, and dizziness

Because chest pain can signal a serious condition, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Severe, crushing, or squeezing chest pain
Pain spreading to the arms, jaw, neck, or back
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Dizziness, nausea, or cold sweats
Sudden, sharp pain with coughing or deep breathing

Early intervention can be life-saving, especially in cases of heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

Diagnostic Chest Pain

At The New Foscote Hospital, we offer advanced diagnostic tests to quickly determine the cause of chest pain, including:

Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Measures heart rhythm and detects abnormalities
Echocardiogram – Uses ultrasound to assess heart function
Blood Tests – To check for heart damage, inflammation, or clotting disorders
Chest X-Ray – Evaluates lung health and detects infections or rib injuries
CT Scan or MRI – Provides detailed imaging of the heart and lungs
Exercise Stress Test – Assesses how the heart responds to physical activity

Early and accurate diagnosis allows for targeted treatment and peace of mind.

Treatment Options for Chest Pain

The right treatment depends on the underlying cause. Our specialists provide:

Cardiac care – Medications, lifestyle advice, and specialist referrals for heart-related conditions
Pain management – For musculoskeletal causes such as costochondritis or rib injuries
Gastrointestinal treatments – For acid reflux, ulcers, or gallbladder issues
Pulmonary treatments – For lung infections or respiratory conditions
Anxiety & stress management – Support for panic attacks and related symptoms

We ensure that every patient receives a personalised care plan for long-term health and well-being.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing persistent or unexplained chest pain, our private GP service offers fast access to expert assessment and diagnostic testing.

Same-day & next-day appointments available
No need to be registered with the hospital
30-minute private GP consultation: £100
Insurance billing available
Referrals for cardiology, respiratory, and digestive specialists

Taking proactive steps can help prevent serious complications and ensure peace of mind.

Our Resident Private GP’s

Our Private GP’s welcoming and highly experienced. They offer patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.