Chest pain is one of the most common reasons for urgent medical attention. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis — the underlying cause must be established through proper assessment, as symptoms alone cannot reliably distinguish a pulled muscle from a heart attack.
Dr Matthew Balerdi offers rapid assessment for chest pain in Hull, Grimsby and Scunthorpe, including same-week ECG, echocardiography, CT coronary angiography, and stress echocardiography.
Not all chest pain is cardiac, but certain features raise concern and warrant further investigation. Features that suggest a possible cardiac origin include:
It is important to recognise that chest pain does not always present in a classic pattern. Women, the elderly, and people with diabetes are more likely to experience atypical symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, upper back pain, or discomfort in the jaw or arm without obvious chest tightness. A "normal" sounding description does not guarantee a benign cause.
Chest pain has many possible causes. Establishing the correct diagnosis is essential because treatment depends entirely on the underlying condition.
A structured approach to investigation ensures the correct diagnosis is reached efficiently and safely.
Detailed clinical history, 12-lead ECG, and blood tests including troponin, D-dimer, full blood count, and lipid profile to identify or exclude acute causes.
Echocardiogram to assess cardiac structure and function. CT coronary angiogram is recommended by NICE as the first-line investigation for stable chest pain of suspected cardiac origin.
Stress echocardiography or myocardial perfusion scintigraphy when CT coronary angiography is inconclusive or in patients with known coronary artery disease.
Based on your symptoms and clinical assessment, Dr Balerdi may recommend one or more of the following investigations.
Reviewed by Dr Matthew Balerdi, Consultant Imaging Cardiologist (FRCP) — Last reviewed: April 2026
Chest pain should always be taken seriously. Early investigation can provide reassurance or identify treatable conditions before they become emergencies. Schedule your assessment today.