Experiencing chest pain can be a frightening and confusing situation. It is important to understand that chest pain can have many causes, ranging from minor issues to serious medical conditions requiring immediate attention.
The key is to know which doctor to see for chest pain and how to get the proper diagnosis and care.
This article will help you understand the types of doctors who assess and treat chest pain, what to expect during a consultation, and what steps to take for your health.
Understanding Chest Pain
Chest pain is not a condition itself but rather a symptom. It can stem from a variety of causes, such as heart conditions, lung problems, muscle strain, or digestive issues. The severity and nature of chest pain vary from person to person.
Pain can be sharp or dull, constant or occasional, and may even radiate to your arms, jaw, or back.
Common causes of chest pain are:
- Heart-related issues like angina, heart attacks, or pericarditis
- Lung-related concerns such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or collapsed lung
- Gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux, esophageal spasms, or gallstones
- Muscle or rib injuries, chest wall inflammation, or nerve-related pain
If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling 911.
The First Doctor to See for Chest Pain: Primary Care Physician
Your primary care physician (PCP) is often the first doctor to see for chest pain. PCPs are general practitioners who evaluate your symptoms and medical history to form an initial diagnosis. They will conduct a physical exam and may order basic tests like blood work, chest X-rays, or an electrocardiogram (ECG).
A primary care physician plays a crucial role in determining whether a specialist needs to be involved. If the pain is musculoskeletal or related to conditions like acid reflux, your PCP may provide direct treatment or recommend lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.
Cardiologist for Heart-Related Chest Pain
If your primary care physician suspects a heart-related issue, you will likely be referred to a cardiologist. Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.
These specialists are essential in addressing chest pain caused by angina or more serious concerns like a heart attack.
What to Expect During a Cardiologist Visit
Here is what you can expect when you see a cardiologist for chest pain:
- Comprehensive evaluation and discussion of your symptoms and medical history.
- Diagnostic tests, such as stress tests to measure heart performance under physical exertion, echocardiogram to check the heart’s structure and function, and coronary angiography to assess blood flow in coronary arteries.
- Development of a treatment plan that may include medications like beta blockers or nitroglycerin, lifestyle recommendations, or further procedures like angioplasty.
Pulmonologist for Lung-Related Chest Pain
If your symptoms suggest lung-related conditions like pneumonia, blood clots, or pleurisy (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), a pulmonologist will be the appropriate doctor to consult.
Pulmonologists specialize in respiratory health and are skilled in diagnosing and treating chest pain caused by lung issues.
Key diagnostic tools a pulmonologist may use:
- CT scans for detailed lung imaging.
- Pulmonary function tests to assess your breathing efficiency.
- Lab tests to diagnose infections or inflammatory conditions.
Patients with chronic lung diseases like COPD or asthma that exacerbate chest pain will receive specialized care under a pulmonologist’s guidance.
Gastroenterologist for Digestive-Related Chest Pain
Chest pain that originates from the digestive system is often referred to a gastroenterologist. Conditions like acid reflux, gallstones, or esophageal spasms can lead to discomfort in the chest area.
Tests and treatments a gastroenterologist may offer:
- Endoscopy to examine the esophagus and stomach.
- pH tests to detect acid reflux.
- Prescriptions for proton-pump inhibitors or antacids to manage conditions like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
- Dietary adjustments to help alleviate symptoms.
Neurologist or Orthopedic Specialist for Musculoskeletal Chest Pain
Sometimes, chest pain is unrelated to internal organs and stems instead from issues within the musculoskeletal system, such as rib injuries, nerve damage, or costochondritis (inflammation of cartilage in the rib cage).
In these cases, your primary care physician may refer you to a neurologist or orthopedic specialist.
Emergency Physicians at Emergency Room for Severe or Unexplained Chest Pain
If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, visit the emergency room immediately. Emergency physicians are trained to stabilize patients and identify life-threatening conditions.
They may conduct tests like ECGs, blood enzyme tests, and imaging scans to quickly determine whether a heart attack, clot, or other serious condition is present.
What to Do If You Are Unsure Which Specialist to See
If you are not sure which doctor to see for chest pain, your primary care provider is the best starting point. From there, they can refer you to the appropriate specialist if needed.
Additionally, consider seeking a multispecialty medical center like Hudson MD Group, where you can access a range of specialists under one roof for streamlined care.
Doctor to See for Chest Pain in West Orange, NJ
Do not ignore chest pain, even if it feels mild. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and safeguard your health.
At Hudson MD Group, we offer comprehensive care through a network of specialists, including cardiologists, pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, and more. Our multispecialty model ensures you receive expert, coordinated care tailored to your needs — all in one place.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our providers, call us today at (973) 705-4914 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
