Ignoring chest pain can be fatal, says Dr Arijit Bose

Chest pain can occur in a variety of ways, ranging from a sharp stab to a dull ache.

In certain cases, the pain can seem crushing or burning, while in other cases, it can travel up one’s neck, into the jaw, and radiate through back or one or both of the problems.

"If one is feeling a sudden discomfort in their chest or restlessness that makes one feel weary, it might be due to acidity or an early sign of angina pain. Don’t ignore this warning sign as it can be an enduring cardio-vascular complication that can be fatal if not treated on time. You need prompt medical intervention and need to call the doctor on Emergency duty at the nearest hospital," said Dr. Bose.

Emergency medicine plays a pivotal role in the treatment of patients suffering from acute illness, injuries or accidents in the country. It is one of the most specialised departments in a hospital equipped to save lives.

According to Dr Arijit Bose, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital in Kolkata runs a 24-hour Emergency Care equipped to meet medical and surgical emergencies, including polytrauma.

"In addition, we have well equipped ambulances manned by trained personnel and doctors,”  said Dr Bose.

With a a dedicated Chest Pain unit and modern imaging systems, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital is equipped to diagnose life-threatening causes of chest pain and treatment for such underlying conditions can start immediately.

For critical cases, the hospital conducts the POC Test, a blood test. Echo is also conducted for same as it takes about 15 minutes to know the risks with regard to chest pain.

128 slice CT scan is the latest technology for best results and prognosis. In the initial 0-4 hours of chest pain, people show normal ECG, which might vary from time to time depending upon the severity of the disease.