Is chest pain anxiety or something serious?

If you are experiencing chest pain, the safest course of action is to seek immediate emergency medical evaluation (such as calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room). Never assume chest pain is just anxiety without a professional medical assessment. Only a doctor can accurately diagnose the cause using tools like an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests.

While only a professional can make this determination, there are general differences in how cardiac-related pain and anxiety-related chest pain typically present. Cardiac pain is often described as a heavy pressure, squeezing, or crushing sensation in the center of the chest that may radiate to your left arm, neck, jaw, or back, and is frequently accompanied by shortness of breath, cold sweats, or nausea. Conversely, anxiety- or panic-induced chest pain is more commonly sharp or stabbing, localized to a specific area, peaks quickly (often within 10 minutes), and may be accompanied by hyperventilation, trembling, or tingling in your hands and feet.