Chest Tightness: When to Seek Cardiac Care

There is a feeling of tightness or discomfort in the center of the chest?

Hello! I am currently a full-time candidate for the national examination.
For the past two months, I have been feeling a tightness in my chest, as if there is a breath stuck there (similar to the sensation of holding your breath for too long).
I also notice my heartbeat more prominently, like after running or when startled or anxious; I can clearly feel my heart beating.
When I check my pulse, it is about 70-80 beats per minute.
I run for half an hour two days every three days.
Since the chest tightness started, the discomfort during running has become more pronounced.
I feel a strong urge to burp to relieve the pressure in my chest.
Additionally, due to the cold winter temperatures, I often have nasal congestion, making it difficult to breathe smoothly, so I have to take small breaths through my nose.
I'm unsure if this is related to the stress of studying or if there is an issue with my breathing, chest, or heart.
I also have some concerns about palpitations.
Could you please advise me on which specialty I should consult?

Xiao Fuzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/18

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, if you are experiencing nasal congestion that makes it difficult to breathe smoothly, it could potentially trigger your symptoms.
You may also notice a pronounced heartbeat or palpitations, which is not necessarily a disease; feeling your heartbeat is considered palpitations.
This sensation may be more related to stress and anxiety from studying, leading to autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
It is advisable to monitor your condition, but if you continue to feel unwell, it is recommended to visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2017/03/18

More Info

Chest tightness can be a concerning symptom, especially for someone who is experiencing it frequently, as you described. It’s important to understand that while chest tightness can be caused by various factors, some of which may be benign, it can also indicate underlying cardiac issues that require medical attention.

Given your symptoms of chest tightness, noticeable heartbeats, and increased discomfort during physical activity, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional, particularly a cardiologist. The cardiologist can perform a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and possibly imaging studies such as a stress test or echocardiogram to evaluate your heart's function and rule out any significant coronary artery disease (CAD) or other cardiac conditions.

Your history of feeling tightness in the chest, especially during exercise, along with the sensation of your heart racing or pounding, raises the possibility of exercise-induced ischemia or other cardiovascular issues. The fact that you have been experiencing these symptoms more frequently over the past two months, particularly in the context of increased stress from studying for exams, suggests that both physical and psychological factors could be contributing to your condition.

In addition to cardiac causes, your symptoms could also be related to anxiety or stress, which can manifest as chest tightness and palpitations. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause feelings of breathlessness and tightness in the chest. The nasal congestion you mentioned could further complicate your breathing, especially in colder weather, leading to a sensation of tightness or discomfort.

It’s also worth noting that lifestyle factors, such as your running routine and overall physical activity, can influence how your body responds to stress and exertion. If you have recently changed your exercise habits or if your stress levels have increased significantly, these factors could also be contributing to your symptoms.

To summarize, it is essential to take your symptoms seriously and consult with a cardiologist. They can help determine whether your chest tightness is related to a cardiac condition or if it may be due to anxiety or other non-cardiac causes. Early evaluation and intervention can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, allowing you to manage your symptoms effectively and maintain your overall health.

In the meantime, consider monitoring your symptoms closely. Keep a diary of when the chest tightness occurs, its duration, any associated symptoms (like shortness of breath or palpitations), and any potential triggers (like stress or physical activity). This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

Lastly, while waiting for your appointment, try to manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga, which can help alleviate some anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Chest Pain and Rapid Heartbeat: When to Seek Cardiac Care

I am a heavy worker, 29 years old, married with children. In the past, I have experienced occasional chest tightness and rapid heartbeats, but these episodes were brief. However, in the past few days, the frequency of these episodes has increased, even becoming persistent daily. ...

Dr. Chen Guifeng reply Cardiology
Hello: Please visit the cardiology outpatient clinic for medical care. Thank you.

Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I suddenly felt a tightness in my chest as if my heart was being compressed, which lasted for about ten seconds. I was quite worried, so I went to the hospital to see a cardiologist, but the doctor said there was nothing serious. Since then, over...

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! You can choose the medical specialty based on your symptoms.

Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to See a Cardiologist

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my condition. I frequently experience tachycardia accompanied by chest tightness and pain, as well as stiffness in my shoulders and neck, and sometimes sharp pain. I have visited many major hospitals and undergone numerous electrocardi...

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology
Hello: There are many causes of chest tightness. Besides heart disease, conditions such as asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), neuralgia, anxiety, and stress can also trigger it. If all the mentioned tests are normal, it indicates that there should not be any signific...

Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about occasionally feeling a sensation of tightness in my chest for a period of time, and sometimes experiencing sharp chest pain. Could this be related to temporary lifestyle factors, or should I go to the hospital for further examination?

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Due to your young age and lack of chronic diseases, your risk of developing heart disease is low. Many factors in life can contribute to this situation, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is advisable to adjus...