Chest Discomfort and Digestive Issues After Exercise

Q: Chest Discomfort and Digestive Issues After Exercise

Hello： 1. <br>Considering your physical condition, I personally recommend that you consult a cardiologist at a major hospital for a more thorough evaluation. <br>2. <br>Exercise should be based on the principle of avoiding injuries; the situation you described is indeed insuffici

Left chest tightness, frequent belching after meals, and feeling the heartbeat while walking?

Hello Doctor, at the beginning of April, I developed tendonitis in the ligaments of my right foot.
Since I was going to Japan, I visited a clinic to obtain muscle relaxants and other common medications, and the symptoms subsided in about three days.
I traveled to Japan on April 18, during which I walked extensively.
My right knee experienced a few brief episodes of warmth, but I didn't think much of it at the time.
I returned to Taiwan on April 26.
On April 30, I hiked a simple ancient trail, and the next day, the tendonitis in my right foot flared up again.
This time, I relied solely on ice therapy and rest for recovery, and the symptoms disappeared after a few days.
However, starting in May, my right knee and left knee have repeatedly experienced warmth, indicating a possible inflammatory response (though not painful).
I continued to use ice therapy and increased my rest for nearly half a month.
Around June 3, I suddenly felt a dull sensation in my left chest (between the CRP pressure point and the clavicle), without any pain.
Over the past few days, I measured my blood pressure with a home electronic monitor, which mostly ranged from 132 to 159 systolic (after taking a hot shower), and my heart rate was between 62 and 87 (after taking a hot shower).
I often experience bloating and belching after meals.
The dull sensation in my chest feels more comfortable when I stretch my limbs.
Last night (June 6), after taking a hot shower and walking out of the bathroom, I suddenly felt a slight swelling sensation between my left eye socket and temple, so I decided to rest early.
This morning, before getting out of bed, I measured my blood pressure, which was 132/78 (HR 64).
After having breakfast half an hour later, it was 132/88 (HR 68).
After doing about ten minutes of warm-up exercises, the reading was 141/87 (HR 81).
Doctor, I would like to ask if the current dull sensation in my left chest requires immediate evaluation at a major hospital for a series of tests? If so, which department should I consult? Most importantly, what conditions could potentially cause this? I am 177 cm tall, weigh 109 kg, and usually spend most of my time sitting and writing, with insufficient exercise, except for instances like my recent trip to Japan where I engaged in extensive physical activity.
Thank you, Doctor.

J.L., 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/07

Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine

Hello: 1.
Considering your physical condition, I personally recommend that you consult a cardiologist at a major hospital for a more thorough evaluation.
2.
Exercise should be based on the principle of avoiding injuries; the situation you described is indeed insufficient.
It is not advisable to be inactive during the week and then overexert yourself on weekends, as this can lead to physical harm.
I suggest you consult a fitness training expert or a sports medicine specialist to develop a progressive exercise plan.
3.
Your knee and right foot tendonitis should not be taken lightly; you need to see an orthopedic physician.

Reply Date: 2016/06/07

More Info

Understanding chest discomfort and digestive issues after exercise can be complex, especially when considering your recent history of tendonitis and the physical activity you've engaged in. Based on the symptoms you've described, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, the chest discomfort you're experiencing, particularly the "dull" sensation located between your sternum and collarbone, could be related to a few different issues. Given your history of tendonitis and increased physical activity, it's possible that the discomfort could be musculoskeletal in nature. This means it could be related to muscle strain or tension in the chest area, especially if you've been engaging in activities that involve upper body movement or if you've been compensating for discomfort in your legs.

However, it's also important to consider cardiac-related issues, especially since you mentioned fluctuations in your blood pressure and heart rate. While your blood pressure readings seem to be within a reasonable range, the fact that you have experienced discomfort in the chest area warrants further investigation. Conditions such as angina or other cardiac issues can present with similar symptoms, and given your sedentary lifestyle and recent increase in physical activity, it is crucial to rule out any cardiovascular concerns.

The digestive symptoms you mentioned, such as bloating and belching after meals, could also be contributing to your overall discomfort. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastrointestinal issues can cause sensations that may be mistaken for chest pain. Stress and anxiety, particularly if you are feeling overwhelmed by your recent activities or health concerns, can exacerbate these symptoms.

Given your symptoms and history, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. I recommend visiting a healthcare provider, preferably a cardiologist, to evaluate your chest discomfort. They may suggest a series of tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or even a stress test to assess your heart's function, especially considering your recent increase in physical activity. If your symptoms are found to be more related to gastrointestinal issues, a gastroenterologist may be the appropriate specialist to consult.

In the meantime, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any worsening of your chest discomfort, such as the onset of sharp pain, shortness of breath, or any other concerning symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
In summary, while your symptoms could be related to musculoskeletal strain or digestive issues, it is crucial to rule out any serious cardiac conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the necessary guidance and treatment options to address your concerns effectively. Additionally, maintaining a balanced approach to exercise, gradually increasing intensity, and managing stress can help improve your overall well-being.

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