Understanding Chest Pain and Palpitations: Causes and Treatment

Experiencing chest pain and heart palpitations can be alarming and often points to underlying cardiovascular issues. Clinically, these symptoms are commonly associated with significant coronary artery narrowing, which can lead to related arrhythmias. When the coronary arteries are narrowed by more than 50%, a diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) may be considered. If the blockage exceeds 75%, it can result in noticeable symptoms of myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, such as chest pain, tightness, and angina attacks.

Connection Between Ischemia and Arrhythmias

The lack of adequate blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle can trigger various types of arrhythmias. These may include tachyarrhythmias like sinus tachycardia, atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation, and supraventricular tachycardia. On the other hand, bradyarrhythmias such as sinus block or atrioventricular conduction block can also occur, contributing to sensations of heart palpitations and fluttering, especially in combination with chest discomfort.

Diagnostic Approaches for Chest Pain and Palpitations

To properly evaluate these symptoms, healthcare professionals typically recommend coronary artery assessment through diagnostic tools like coronary angiography or coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). These tests help identify the extent and location of arterial blockages, guiding further treatment decisions.

Effective Treatment Options for Coronary Artery Disease

Once coronary artery disease is confirmed, timely intervention is crucial. Treatment strategies may include percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent placement or balloon angioplasty, or in more severe cases, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). These procedures aim to restore proper blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviate ischemia and hypoxia, and reduce symptoms like chest pain and arrhythmias.

By addressing the root cause of these symptoms, patients can experience significant improvement in their overall condition and long-term prognosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing heart-related discomfort effectively and preventing potential complications.