Call emergency services immediately if the chest pain is severe, sudden, crushing, or lasts more than a few minutes
Seek urgent medical care if chest pain comes with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, fainting, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder
Stop activity and rest in a seated or semi-upright position
Loosen tight clothing
Take prescribed heart medicine exactly as directed
Take aspirin only if a doctor has told you it is safe for you
Use an antacid if the pain seems related to heartburn and you can safely take it
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine
Avoid heavy meals, spicy foods, and lying flat after eating
Use slow, steady breathing to reduce panic or anxiety
Apply a warm compress if the pain is from muscle strain
Avoid lifting, twisting, or strenuous exercise until the cause is known
Get checked by a doctor if the pain is new, recurring, or unexplained
Follow treatment for the underlying cause, such as acid reflux, muscle strain, anxiety, infection, or heart disease
Do not ignore chest pain even if it improves
Do not drive yourself to the hospital if the pain is severe or concerning