What should a patient do if chest pain persists after taking nitroglycerin?

• A. Wait 15 minutes
• B. Drink water
• C. Go to the emergency room
• D. Take heating pad

Answer: (C)

Persistent chest pain after taking nitroglycerin signals a possible acute coronary syndrome and requires urgent medical evaluation. While nitroglycerin can relieve angina by widening blood vessels, ongoing pain may mean the heart is still not getting enough blood, or another serious problem is present, and only a medical team can quickly assess and treat it. Go to the emergency department now or call emergency services so an ECG, blood tests, and appropriate therapies can be given without delay. Do not rely on home remedies or waiting to see if the pain improves. If a second dose was prescribed and instructed to be used after a short interval, follow those instructions, but otherwise seek immediate care. Seek urgent help especially if there are associated symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw.