Chest pain is one of the symptoms that arouse the most concern, especially due to its relationship with cardiovascular problems. Although it does not always indicate something serious, the symptom requires attention, as it can be associated with simple conditions, such as reflux, muscle tension and anxiety, to emergency situations, such as a heart attack. Understanding when this discomfort represents a risk is essential to act at the right time.

According to cardiologist Marcelo Bergamo, it is precisely the trivialization of symptom which represents one of the biggest risks. “There is a common mistake of thinking that chest pain is always something simple or emotional. Not all pain is a heart attack, but every heart attack can start with chest pain. The ideal is to always investigate”, says the doctor.

To help differentiate common situations from warning signs, cardiologist Marcelo Bergamo highlights some myths and truths on the subject. Check it out!

1. Chest pain may indicate a heart attack, even if it is not very intense

True. Pain can be mild and manifest as pressure, burning or discomfort, and yet represent a heart problem.

2. If the pain goes away quickly, it is nothing serious

Mito. Some heart pain may be intermittent, coming and going. This does not exclude risk and, therefore, must be investigated.

3. The symptom may be accompanied by other signs

True. Shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea and pain radiating to the arm, back or jaw increase the suspicion of cardiac origin.

4. Young people can also have heart problems

True. Today we see more and more cases in younger people, very linked to stress and lifestyle.

5. Chest pain always means a heart attack

Mito. Not all pain is cardiac. Anxiety, muscle problems, and reflux can also cause similar discomfort.

It is important to highlight that not all heart problems present obvious pain. In women, the elderly and people with diabetes, for example, symptoms may be more silent or atypical. “There are cases in which a heart attack occurs without chest pain, with signs such as extreme tiredness, dizziness or shortness of breath”, reinforces cardiologist Marcelo Bergamo.

When to seek medical care

The recommendation is clear: any chest pain that starts suddenly, is persistent or is associated with other symptoms should be evaluated urgently, especially if it appears during physical exertion or stressful situations.

Doctor Marcelo Bergamo draws attention to signs such as a feeling of heaviness or chest tightnesspain that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes, in addition to associated symptoms. “Time is crucial. The faster the care, the greater the chances of avoiding serious complications”, highlights the doctor.

More than generating panic, information has the role of saving lives. In a scenario where heart attacks are increasing among young people and can manifest themselves in different ways, understanding the body’s signals is essential. “In case of doubt, it is better to err on the side of caution rather than delay. The heart usually gives signals and the problem is when they are ignored”, concludes the cardiologist.

By Rayssa Martins