Chest Pain Management in Pasadena, CA
Chest pain can be alarming, and for good reason—it may signal an underlying heart condition or another serious health issue. While not all chest pain is related to the heart, it should always be taken seriously. Possible causes range from cardiovascular concerns like angina or high blood pressure to digestive problems, muscle strain, or even stress. Because chest pain has numerous potential sources, accurate diagnosis and proper management are crucial for protecting both health and peace of mind.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, chest pain management is guided by Kimberley Shine, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician who provides compassionate, thorough, and individualized care. By combining advanced medical evaluations with integrative and functional approaches, Dr. Shine works to uncover the true cause of chest discomfort and create treatment strategies that address both symptoms and root issues.
Common Causes of Chest Pain
Chest pain can stem from a variety of conditions, including:
- Cardiac Causes: Angina, heart attack, arrhythmias, or inflammation of the heart lining.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Acid reflux, GERD, gallstones, or esophageal spasms.
- Musculoskeletal Problems: Muscle strain, rib injuries, or costochondritis (inflammation of cartilage in the chest).
- Respiratory Conditions: Pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, or other lung-related concerns.
- Stress and Anxiety: Panic attacks and chronic stress can sometimes mimic cardiac pain.
Because chest pain may overlap across these categories, a comprehensive evaluation is crucial for pinpointing the cause and developing a safe and effective treatment plan.
How Chest Pain Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, our evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and a comprehensive physical examination. Diagnostic tools may include:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG): Measures electrical activity of the heart.
- Blood Tests: To check for signs of heart damage, inflammation, or metabolic imbalances.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, echocardiograms, or CT scans to evaluate the heart, lungs, and surrounding structures.
- Stress Testing: To determine how the heart performs under physical exertion.
- Functional Assessments: Reviewing nutrition, hormone balance, and other lifestyle factors that may contribute to chest pain.
This thorough approach ensures that treatment is based on an accurate understanding of each patient’s health.
Treatment Options for Chest Pain
Once the cause is identified, treatment may include a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle strategies. Options at Shine Health and Wellness include:
- Medication Management: Prescribing or adjusting medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, or acid reflux.
- Lifestyle Counseling: Encouraging healthy eating, exercise, and weight management to support cardiovascular and overall wellness.
- Stress Reduction Techniques: Integrative therapies to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being.
- Nutritional Support: Guidance on diet changes that can help prevent heartburn, reduce inflammation, or lower cardiovascular risks.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to ensure progress and prevent future complications.
By tailoring each plan to the individual, Shine Health and Wellness helps patients find both relief and confidence in their care.
Preventing Future Episodes
Beyond immediate relief, chest pain management also focuses on prevention and early detection. Addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and stress can reduce the likelihood of recurring symptoms. Shine Health and Wellness emphasizes patient education and proactive care, equipping patients with the knowledge and tools they need to protect their long-term heart health.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, brings more than a decade of medical experience and a strong background in integrative and functional medicine. She believes that true healing begins with the doctor-patient relationship, taking time to listen, validate concerns, and develop treatment strategies in collaboration with her patients.
The Shine Health and Wellness team includes experienced nurses, a lifestyle coach, and a licensed acupuncturist, ensuring patients have access to comprehensive care under one roof. By focusing on the root causes of chest pain while also providing symptom relief, Shine Health and Wellness delivers a unique, patient-centered approach to care.
Take Charge of Your Health
Chest pain should never be ignored. With timely evaluation and personalized treatment, you can find relief and protect your long-term health. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team are here to provide the comprehensive care you need. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.