Chest Pain: A Student's Concerns About Heart Health

I woke up in the early morning due to chest tightness and pain?

Hello, Doctor.
I am a resident student.
Due to being overweight, I use the treadmill for at least an hour each day at a speed of about 6 to 7 kilometers per hour.
However, I have been inactive for a while, so I get quite breathless after running for a bit and need to take short breaks to hydrate before continuing.
After researching online, I am quite concerned about the possibility of heart disease.
Based on my situation and what I found online, I suspect the following factors may be involved.
Could you please help me determine if these are relevant or if there are other factors to consider, and advise me on how to protect my heart and improve my condition? I would greatly appreciate it.
1.
I do not gradually slow down when running; I stop immediately when I feel tired.
2.
I drink water within five minutes of stopping, although it's only a sip or two.
3.
The weather is cold, and I am not adequately warm.
I suffer from severe hyperhidrosis, so to avoid my blanket becoming damp from sweating and to prevent catching a cold from night sweats, I only use a sheet and a blanket.
I thought that wearing thick pajamas would be sufficient even if it gets colder.
Additionally, I do not experience chest tightness or pain at home.
However, I woke up at 4:15 AM in my dormitory with chest tightness and pain, which lasted until 6:30 AM.
I felt anxious and wanted to seek medical attention, but it was too early, and it has been several years since my last visit.
I decided to consult online about the causes and methods to address this issue, hoping that following your advice will help improve my condition.
Although being overweight puts me at higher risk for heart disease, I am already working on losing weight.
Thank you for taking the time to respond amidst your busy schedule.
I wish you and your family peace and all the best.

Yue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/01

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your current condition, exercising is indeed your best option and will likely provide you with the most benefit.
However, since you do not have a regular exercise routine, I recommend starting gradually.
In terms of speed, you should run at a pace where you can talk without gasping for breath, which doesn't necessarily have to be 6-7 km/h.
For duration, I suggest starting with about 30-40 minutes.
Once you become accustomed to this, you can gradually increase both speed and duration.

Regardless, it is normal to feel breathless and have an increased heart rate at your current speed and duration.
This initial breathlessness and increased heart rate are necessary for fat burning to occur.
The most important factor is consistency; aim to maintain this level of exercise at least 3-4 days a week.
I believe you will see significant results in a few months.
Regarding your question about whether to slow down, I suggest you can gradually reduce your pace, mainly to avoid injury.
Hydration and cold weather should not have a significant impact, but it is advisable to perform proper warm-up exercises before and after running.
As for any potential heart issues, it may be necessary to visit a hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) or cardiac enzyme tests to determine that.

Wishing you better health, and thank you for your question!

Reply Date: 2017/03/01

More Info

It's understandable to be concerned about chest pain, especially as a student who is trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise. Based on your description, several factors could be contributing to your symptoms, and it's important to address them comprehensively.

Firstly, the fact that you are using a treadmill for an hour daily at a speed of 6-7 km/h is commendable, especially if you were previously inactive. However, if you are not accustomed to this level of exertion, it's crucial to ease into your workouts gradually. Sudden stops after intense exercise can lead to a variety of issues, including a drop in blood pressure, which might cause feelings of lightheadedness or chest discomfort. Instead of stopping abruptly, try to incorporate a cool-down period where you gradually decrease your speed for about 5-10 minutes before coming to a complete stop. This allows your heart rate to return to normal more safely.

Secondly, regarding hydration, it's essential to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise. While taking a few sips of water is better than nothing, consider drinking more water before your workout and ensuring you hydrate adequately afterward. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and may contribute to feelings of fatigue or discomfort during exercise.

The cold weather you mentioned can also play a role in your symptoms. Cold air can constrict blood vessels, which may lead to increased heart strain during physical activity. If you are experiencing chest tightness or discomfort, ensure you are adequately dressed for the weather, and consider warming up indoors before heading out for your run.

Your mention of experiencing chest pain that woke you up in the middle of the night is concerning. While it could be related to anxiety or stress, especially given your academic pressures, it’s essential to rule out any potential cardiac issues. Since you have a history of being overweight, it's wise to be vigilant about heart health. Although you are actively working on weight loss, which is a positive step, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough evaluation, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) or other tests if necessary.

Additionally, consider the impact of anxiety on your physical health. Stress and anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms, including chest pain, palpitations, and shortness of breath. If you find that anxiety is a significant part of your life, seeking support from a counselor or therapist could be beneficial. They can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety, which may alleviate some of your physical symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to exercise habits, hydration, and environmental factors, it’s crucial to take them seriously. Implement gradual warm-ups and cool-downs, ensure proper hydration, dress appropriately for the weather, and consider the role of anxiety in your symptoms. Most importantly, do not hesitate to seek medical advice to rule out any serious conditions and to receive personalized recommendations tailored to your health needs. Your health and well-being are paramount, and taking proactive steps now can help ensure a healthier future.

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