[46M] Experiencing sharp chest pain and heart palpitations

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Angina: This is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease. It often presents as discomfort, heaviness, tightness, pressure, aching, burning, numbness, fullness, or squeezing that can be mistaken for indigestion. It is often felt in the chest or sometimes in the left arm and shoulder.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes, surgery.

• Heart attack: A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot. This can damage or destroy part of the heart muscle. A heart attack can cause chest pain, pain radiating to the arm, and heart palpitations.

  • A heart attack is a medical emergency. Treatment involves reopening the blocked artery and restoring blood flow to the heart muscle.

• Arrhythmia: This is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. This can cause heart palpitations and chest pain.

  • Treatment depends on the type and severity of the arrhythmia. It can range from lifestyle changes and medications to implantable devices and surgery.

What you can do

Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, it's important that you seek immediate medical attention. You should not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. Instead, call for an ambulance.

What you should look out for

Watch out for any worsening of your symptoms, such as:

• Increasing intensity of chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or fainting

These could be signs of a heart attack, which is a medical emergency. If you experience these symptoms, call for an ambulance immediately.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.