“Sudden stabbing pain in the heart?”
I am a 71 year old, long history of AF 30 years plus, had two cryo ablations, had at least cardio aversions. I'm currently taking Pradaxa, Betaloc, Doxsagin and Frusamide if I need to.
3 Answers
Mark Rasak
Cardiologist
Sudden stabbing chest pains are not typical for unstable angina. Other causes should be looked into, too. Testing to rule out other causes including an Echo to make sure you don't have inflammation of the heart or the covering of the heart. You need a face to face visit to get additional history and get a thorough physical. I would do ecg and echo in my office. Labs to further r/o things like viral infection, etc.
Cardiac pain is usually not sharp and stabbing in nature. Please call your doctor.
Stabbing chest pain is usually related to arrhythmias (Afib, PVCs, PACs), musculoskeletal pains or pain from inflammation of the sac around the heart or lungs (pericarditis, pleurisy). Rarely, it is related to lack of blood flow. With your history, it is likely related to a rhythm issue. Your cardiologist may want you to wear a monitor if symptoms are significant or frequent. Hope this was helpful!
