Going to the ER with chest pain? Here’s what to expect:

Minutes can make a difference when it comes to your heart. Choosing to head to the ER for that chest discomfort was a wise move.

But it's not just chest pain – it could be lingering acid reflux, an unusual tightness in your throat, jaw discomfort, arm pain, or even upper belly pain. Any of these symptoms could be masking a heart issue.

Now you're in the ER after dialing 911. You'll be connected to a heart rhythm monitor, and your ECG will be taken. Within minutes, the ER doctor will assess the ECG and inform both you and the heart team if a major heart attack is underway. If that's the case, quick action might lead you to a heart catheterization procedure.

In certain situations, the situation might not be immediately clear. You might undergo a series of blood tests and ECGs spaced out over a few hours to determine if you're experiencing a milder form of heart attack. If so, you'll receive blood thinners and other medications to ease the stress on your heart and prevent clot expansion. Hospital admission will follow, and a heart catheterization (along with additional tests) could be scheduled within a few days.

But what if it wasn't a heart attack? It might be something unrelated, like acid reflux or a muscle strain. Yet, if you have heart problem risk factors, seeing a cardiologist for an evaluation might be wise.

Often, the next step could involve a stress test. Depending on your risk level and the details of your situation, a cardiologist might recommend a heart catheterization or a CT angiogram of your heart.

Expect your cardiologist to guide you through your heart attack risk and provide personalized advice on how to reduce it. Your heart health journey is important, and understanding your options can make all the difference.