Chest Pain: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Chest burning pain symptoms?

Hello Doctor, yesterday I suddenly experienced a strong burning sensation in my chest upon waking up, along with intense soreness in both of my upper arms.
I felt nauseous, weak, irritable, and broke out in a cold sweat.
This lasted for several minutes, but after a few minutes, the same symptoms occurred about six or seven times before stabilizing.
I thought I might collapse at home.
I would like to know if this could be due to sleeping too long in a chair the night before.
Since the subsequent symptoms have not recurred, I am unsure whether I should go to the hospital for an examination.
I wanted to consult with you first, thank you.
This morning, I woke up to another sudden burning sensation in my chest, but this time it only lasted a few seconds and then disappeared.

Ms. Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/22

Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology

Based on your description, it seems more like gastroesophageal reflux, but we cannot completely rule out a cardiac issue.
Please first visit the thoracic department for a chest X-ray.
I recommend an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with the gastroenterology department.
If both tests yield no results, then proceed to the cardiology department for further evaluation.
Additionally, limit your intake of sweets and avoid lying down for at least one hour after eating.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/05/22

More Info

Chest pain can be a concerning symptom, and your description raises several important points that warrant careful consideration. The sudden onset of a strong burning sensation in the chest, accompanied by pain in the arms, nausea, weakness, agitation, and cold sweats, can be indicative of various medical conditions, some of which may require immediate attention.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that chest pain can arise from multiple sources, including cardiac, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and psychological origins. Given your symptoms, one of the primary concerns is the possibility of a cardiac event, such as angina or even a myocardial infarction (heart attack). The classic presentation of a heart attack often includes chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back, along with associated symptoms like nausea, sweating, and a feeling of impending doom.

While you mentioned that the symptoms occurred after sleeping in a chair for an extended period, which could potentially lead to musculoskeletal pain or discomfort, the combination of symptoms you experienced—especially the burning sensation in the chest and arm pain—should not be overlooked. Even if the symptoms have subsided, it is essential to recognize that cardiac issues can sometimes present with intermittent symptoms.

In addition to cardiac causes, gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or esophageal spasms can also mimic heart-related symptoms. These conditions can cause burning sensations in the chest and may be exacerbated by certain positions or after eating. However, the presence of arm pain and the severity of your symptoms suggest that a cardiac evaluation is prudent.

Given the nature of your symptoms, I strongly recommend seeking medical attention, especially if the symptoms recur or worsen. A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests (such as cardiac enzymes), and possibly imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions. It is better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain, as timely intervention can be critical.

In the meantime, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Sudden, severe chest pain or pressure
- Pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulders, neck, arms, back, teeth, or jaw
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- Nausea, vomiting, or lightheadedness
- Cold sweat or clammy skin
If your symptoms are related to anxiety or stress, which can also manifest as chest discomfort, addressing these underlying issues through relaxation techniques, counseling, or stress management strategies may be beneficial. However, this should not replace a thorough medical evaluation to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while your symptoms may have resolved for now, the nature of chest pain, especially when accompanied by other concerning symptoms, necessitates a careful and thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Do not hesitate to seek help, as your health and well-being are paramount.

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