Chest Pain Care
Chest pain should always be taken seriously. Studies clearly show that the most important thing to do if you experience chest pain or stroke symptoms is to call an ambulance and get to hospital immediately. Going to a GP first may delay access to specialist emergency treatment by around an hour, and these lifesaving treatments are not available in a general practice clinic.
At Bellbird Medical Centre, we understand how frightening chest pain can be. While emergency hospital care remains the priority for suspected heart attack symptoms, our clinic is equipped with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and can provide urgent ECGs, blood tests, oxygen therapy, and medical assessment where appropriate.
If you are unsure whether your symptoms are serious, it is safest to seek emergency medical attention immediately. In an emergency, dial 000.
What Causes Chest Pain?
Chest pain can occur for many different reasons, ranging from mild muscular strain to serious heart or lung conditions. Some causes may not be life-threatening, while others require urgent medical treatment.
Common causes of chest pain may include:
- Heart attack or angina
- Heart rhythm abnormalities
- Acid reflux or indigestion
- Muscle or rib injuries
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Lung infections or pneumonia
- Blood clots in the lungs
- Inflammation around the heart or lungs
Because it can be difficult to determine the exact cause without medical assessment, chest pain should never be ignored.
Heart Attack Warning Signs
A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden blockage in one of the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. Without prompt treatment, this can lead to life-threatening complications and permanent heart damage. Every minute counts.
A person experiencing a heart attack may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Discomfort, pressure, heaviness, tightness, fullness, or squeezing pain in the centre of the chest
- Pain spreading to the neck, throat, jaw, shoulders, back, arms, wrists, or hands
- Pain that may only be felt in the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms, or upper back
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating or clammy skin
- Feeling dizzy, faint, or light-headed
Chest Pain Assessment & Emergency Support
When to Call an Ambulance
You should call 000 immediately if you experience:
- Sudden chest pain or pressure
- Chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
- Chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or dizziness
- Pain spreading to the arms, jaw, neck, or back
- Sudden weakness, collapse, or difficulty breathing
Assessment and Support
Our doctors assess chest pain symptoms, review your medical history, and arrange appropriate tests and investigations where needed.
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Blood pressure and oxygen monitoring
- Blood tests
- Heart health assessment
- Referral for specialist or hospital care
Typical appointment time: A standard echocardiogram usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes.