ETHOS

I get brief chest pains only when I cough but no other major symptoms.

Patient

Hi, I'm experiencing a bit of an issue and could use some advice. It's related to some discomfort I'm having.

Triage Assistant

Where does it hurt?

Patient

It's mostly in my chest.

Triage Assistant

Does the pain go anywhere else, like your neck, jaw, arms, or back?

Patient

No, it's just localized in my chest.

Triage Assistant

When did the chest pain begin? Minutes, hours, or days ago?

Patient

It's been going on for a couple of days now.

Triage Assistant

Does the pain come and go, or has it been constant since it started? Does it get worse with exertion?

Patient

The pain comes and goes; it's not constant. It doesn't seem to get worse with exertion.

Triage Assistant

How long does the pain last when it comes? Seconds, minutes, or hours?

Patient

It usually lasts just a few seconds each time.

Triage Assistant

How would you rate the pain on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being mild and 10 being severe?

Patient

I'd say it's about a 3. It's more of a brief discomfort than severe pain.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of heart problems or risk factors for heart disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a strong family history of heart disease?

Patient

No, I don't have a history of heart problems or any of those risk factors.

Triage Assistant

Do you have any history of lung disease, such as asthma, emphysema, or a history of blood clots in your lungs? Are you currently taking any birth control pills?

Patient

No, I don't have any history of lung disease, and I'm not taking any birth control pills.

Triage Assistant

From the information you provided, your symptoms are likely not serious and could be from the muscles, nerves, or joints of your chest wall. Here’s what you can do: - Reassure yourself that fleeting chest pains, like the ones you are experiencing, that last only a few seconds are usually not serious. However, if your chest pain: - Increases in frequency, duration, or severity - Lasts longer than 5 minutes - Persists for more than 3 days - Is accompanied by difficulty breathing or unusual sweating - Causes any other new or unusual symptoms You should seek medical attention. If you have any concerns or your symptoms get worse, contact your primary healthcare provider. Thank you for calling, goodbye.

Dispositions

  • Call EMS 911 Now

  • See More Appropriate Protocol

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  • Callback by PCP Within 1 Hour

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  • Home Care

  • Triage result was accurate.

  • Incomplete first aid advice given.

  • Some assessment questions asked.