Call emergency services immediately if the chest discomfort is severe, sudden, crushing, or spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder
Seek urgent medical care if you have shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, fainting, or a fast or irregular heartbeat
Stop activity and rest in a comfortable position
Loosen tight clothing
Sit upright if the discomfort feels worse when lying down
Take slow, steady breaths
Avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals
Do not drive yourself if symptoms are severe or worsening
Take prescribed heart or chest medications exactly as directed
Use an antacid only if you know the discomfort is from acid reflux and it is safe for you
Apply a warm compress if the pain is from muscle strain
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until symptoms improve
Monitor for worsening or new symptoms
Get medical evaluation if the discomfort is new, recurrent, unexplained, or lasts more than a few minutes