Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
Had EKG done in doctor s office today. Have been experiencing sharp,stabbing pain on left side of chest since Sunday. Started out as really sharp and intense. Lasted for about 15-20 minutes. Thought it as indigestion. Took antacids on and off rest of day. No help. Dr. Said EKG showed signs of previous mild heart attack. I have had this same problem about 5 yrs ago and as most recent since October 2013 before the one on Sunday. Had previous EKG in Oct 2013 that showed signs of mild heart attack too. Had stress test completed at cardiologist office. No issues indicated. Still experiencing pain at the present as I am typing this info. Doctor today scheduled me with a cardiologist. Appt is not until May 7. If I keep experiencing this pain, should I go to the ER to be checked? I am a 52 year old Black female. There is a history of heart problems in my family with my mom and a brother.
Fri, 28 Apr 2023
General & Family Physician, Dr. Priyanka's Response
Hi,
Sharp, stabbing pain on the left side of the chest after an EKG could be caused by a few different things. One possibility is that the EKG itself may have irritated the chest muscles, causing pain. Another possibility is that the EKG revealed an underlying heart condition or issue that is causing the pain.
Given your history of previous EKGs showing signs of a mild heart attack, it is important to take any chest pain seriously and seek medical attention if it persists or worsens. Going to the emergency room may be necessary if the pain is severe or if you are experiencing other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea.
In the meantime, you may want to try taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help alleviate the pain. You should also avoid any activities that may exacerbate the pain or put additional strain on your heart. Follow up with your cardiologist appointment as scheduled and inform your doctor of any ongoing symptoms or changes in your condition.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Pain On Side Of Chest After An EKG?
Hi, Sharp, stabbing pain on the left side of the chest after an EKG could be caused by a few different things. One possibility is that the EKG itself may have irritated the chest muscles, causing pain. Another possibility is that the EKG revealed an underlying heart condition or issue that is causing the pain. Given your history of previous EKGs showing signs of a mild heart attack, it is important to take any chest pain seriously and seek medical attention if it persists or worsens. Going to the emergency room may be necessary if the pain is severe or if you are experiencing other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea. In the meantime, you may want to try taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help alleviate the pain. You should also avoid any activities that may exacerbate the pain or put additional strain on your heart. Follow up with your cardiologist appointment as scheduled and inform your doctor of any ongoing symptoms or changes in your condition. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician