Shortness of Breath and Chest Pain: When to See a Doctor?

Q: Shortness of Breath and Chest Pain: When to See a Doctor?

Hello： Please go to the hospital's pulmonary department immediately. <br>Thank you. <br>Jian Shun Tian.

Chest pain and shortness of breath while walking?

Hello Doctor, around the end of last year, I started experiencing shortness of breath while walking, and recently it has become particularly severe.
I feel very breathless when walking from the first floor to the third floor, and even after walking for just five minutes, I become extremely short of breath.
I also feel tightness and discomfort in the center of my chest (around the ribs).
Over the past few days, wearing a mask sometimes makes it hard to breathe, and I feel a persistent discomfort in my chest.
Should I see a doctor? *I had asthma as a child but have since recovered.* Since I started working last year, I haven't had much time to exercise.* I always wear a mask when going out and try to avoid crowded places.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/12

Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology

Hello: Please go to the hospital's pulmonary department immediately.
Thank you.
Jian Shun Tian.

Reply Date: 2021/05/12

More Info

Experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain can be concerning, especially given your history of asthma and the recent increase in symptoms. It’s essential to take these symptoms seriously, as they can indicate various underlying health issues, some of which may require immediate medical attention.

Based on your description, the combination of shortness of breath, chest tightness, and discomfort in the rib area suggests that it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. Here are several reasons why seeking medical advice is important:
1. Asthma History: Since you mentioned having asthma as a child, it’s possible that your symptoms could be related to a recurrence of asthma or an asthma-like condition. Asthma can sometimes re-emerge, especially in response to environmental factors or stress. If you are experiencing increased shortness of breath, especially with physical activity, it may indicate that your airways are constricted, and you may need a reassessment of your asthma management plan.

2. Cardiovascular Concerns: Chest pain, particularly if it is accompanied by shortness of breath, can sometimes be a sign of cardiovascular issues. Conditions such as angina or even more serious events like a heart attack can present with these symptoms. Although you have had normal tests in the past, new symptoms warrant a re-evaluation, especially if they are persistent or worsening.

3. Pulmonary Issues: Given your symptoms of tightness and difficulty breathing, it’s also important to consider potential pulmonary issues. Conditions such as pneumonia, pleuritis, or even pulmonary embolism can cause similar symptoms. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies or pulmonary function tests to rule out these conditions.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Sometimes, anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms, including chest tightness and shortness of breath. If you have been under stress, especially with changes in your routine (like starting a new job), this could contribute to your symptoms. However, it’s crucial to rule out any physical causes first.

5. Lifestyle Factors: You mentioned that you have not had much time to exercise since starting your job. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to decreased cardiovascular fitness, which may explain your increased shortness of breath during physical activity. However, this does not negate the need for medical evaluation, as underlying conditions must be ruled out.

Given these considerations, I strongly recommend that you see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and possibly conduct tests such as a chest X-ray, an electrocardiogram (ECG), or pulmonary function tests to assess your lung and heart health.

In the meantime, if you experience severe symptoms such as significant chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath that does not improve, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

In summary, your symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain are significant and warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a substantial difference in managing any potential underlying conditions effectively.

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