Is left-sided chest pain a sign of a heart attack?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 56 years old. I am having left-sided chest pain that hurts badly, and I cannot lie down because the pain becomes worse. Is this a sign of a heart attack? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

Left-sided chest pain at your age that is severe and worsens when lying down should be taken very seriously, even if Ibuprofen has eased it somewhat. While pain that is not stabbing and improves with Ibuprofen can sometimes suggest a musculoskeletal cause or inflammation, this does not rule out a heart attack or other serious conditions, such as angina, pericarditis, or a lung-related issue.

Heart-related pain can present as pressure, heaviness, tightness, or deep aching and may worsen in certain positions. Because this is new chest pain with no prior history, the safest and most appropriate action is to seek emergency medical care immediately. Go to the nearest emergency department or call emergency services right away.

Do not try to work it out or rely on pain relief alone. You need an urgent ECG (electrocardiogram), cardiac enzyme tests (including troponin), and a clinical evaluation to rule out a heart attack. Chest pain is one situation where it is always better to be cautious. Please seek medical help immediately.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.