Seek emergency medical help immediately if chest pain is severe, new, worsening, or lasts more than a few minutes
Call emergency services right away if chest pain occurs with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, fainting, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, back, or shoulder
Stop activity and rest
Sit upright or in a comfortable position
Loosen tight clothing
Take prescribed heart medicines exactly as directed
Take aspirin only if a doctor has told you it is safe for you
Use nitroglycerin only if it was prescribed to you
Avoid driving yourself if the pain is significant
Avoid eating heavy meals, caffeine, alcohol, and smoking until evaluated
Seek urgent medical evaluation for any unexplained chest pain
Treat the underlying cause after medical assessment
Follow your doctor’s instructions for reflux, muscle strain, anxiety, or lung-related causes
Get immediate care if chest pain returns or gets worse