Chest pain that spreads to the shoulder, arm, or jaw
Chest pain spreading to the shoulder, arm, or jaw is a hallmark warning sign of a cardiac event. The heart shares nerve pathways with these areas, so cardiac pain is often felt in these distant locations (referred pain). This pattern requires urgent evaluation to rule out a heart attack or unstable angina.
Common Causes of Chest pain that spreads to the shoulder, arm, or jaw
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Unstable angina
- Aortic dissection
- Pericarditis
- Panic attack (can mimic)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care for Chest pain that spreads to the shoulder, arm, or jaw
These signs may indicate a serious problem — don't wait, seek medical care right away:
- Seek emergency care immediately if chest pain radiates to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw — especially with sweating, nausea, breathlessness, or a sense of impending doom.
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