Chest pain can have many causes, ranging from minor issues to life-threatening emergencies. In first aid, chest pain must always be taken seriously because it may indicate a heart attack.
This guide explains how chest pain and suspected heart attacks are approached in UK first aid, what warning signs to recognise, and when urgent emergency action is required in homes, workplaces and public settings.
The information below is general first aid guidance and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Chest pain refers to discomfort or pain felt anywhere in the chest area. It can present in different ways and may be constant or intermittent.
Chest pain may be caused by:
Because some causes are life-threatening, chest pain should never be ignored.
A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart muscle is suddenly reduced or blocked.
This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
In first aid, the priority is early recognition and rapid access to emergency services.
Heart attack symptoms can vary between individuals.
Common warning signs include:
Symptoms may develop suddenly or build gradually.
You should treat chest pain as an emergency if it:
When in doubt, it is safer to seek emergency help.
You should call 999 immediately if:
Do not delay calling emergency services while monitoring symptoms.
While waiting for help to arrive:
Do not give food or drink.
Chest pain can occur in any environment.
Organisations should consider:
Risk-based planning is explained in Workplace First Aid Risk Assessment (UK).
| Environment | Typical risk factors | First aid considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Home | Underlying health conditions | Early recognition, emergency access |
| Workplace | Stress, physical activity | Clear procedures, trained response |
| Public spaces | Unknown medical history | Immediate emergency contact |
| Events & venues | Large crowds, exertion | Visible first aid points |
In some cases, emergency call handlers may advise the person to chew an aspirin.
This should only be done if:
Always follow instructions given by emergency services.
Where chest pain incidents occur in workplaces or public settings, they should be recorded.
Records help organisations:
Guidance on records is provided in Accident Reporting & First Aid Records (UK).
Symptoms can vary, and caution is essential.
Early recognition and rapid emergency response significantly improve outcomes.
Clear procedures, awareness and confidence in calling 999 can save lives.
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