Chest pain
Any chest pain deserves attention. While most cases in young adults are musculoskeletal or anxiety-related, priority is to rule out a cardiac (acute coronary syndrome), pulmonary (embolism, pneumothorax) or aortic (dissection) cause. When in doubt, consult urgently — these conditions are life-threatening and early management saves lives.
Call 112 immediately if:
- Constrictive retrosternal pain > 20 min
- Radiation to left arm, neck or jaw
- Cold sweats, pallor, malaise
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sense of impending doom
- Known cardiac history
First: stay safe
If in serious doubt, don't drive. Sit down, loosen tight clothing, stay calm. If you have prescribed nitroglycerin, take it as usual. Don't wait for the pain to pass alone. For clearly musculoskeletal pain (after exertion, reproducible on palpation, relieved by movement) relative rest and paracetamol may suffice — but discussing it with your doctor remains wise.
When to consult urgently
Any unexplained chest pain in an adult > 35, or with cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, family history), warrants prompt medical advice. If the pain is intense, prolonged or with autonomic signs, call 112. Hospital Erasme (route de Lennik 808) is the nearest reference hospital to Anderlecht.
Unsure? Call reception and we will guide you.
Call the clinic · +32 2 520 25 52FAQ
Can pain that passes in minutes be serious?
Yes. Unstable angina presents as brief recurring pains. Any recurrent chest pain warrants cardiology advice.
Can a panic attack mimic a heart attack?
Yes, and clinically it's sometimes impossible to distinguish without ECG. When in doubt, treat as urgent and get evaluated.
Sources
· Reviewed by Dr. Selim Zengin, general practitioner.