Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Help

Chest tightness, shortness of breath, numbness?

Hello, I would like to ask a few questions!
1.
Recently, I have been experiencing frequent breathing difficulties, feeling like my throat is constricted (previously it only happened occasionally), and I have to exert a lot of effort to feel like I'm breathing properly.

2.
For three consecutive nights, the underwire of my bra has been digging in, and when I lie down, I feel a sense of heaviness, numbness, and tightness, which then progresses to numbness in my neck, followed by numbness in my mouth, shoulder soreness, and then numbness in my hands.

3.
Occasionally during the day, I feel sharp pain in my chest when I breathe.
Should I see a doctor right away, or should I wait until the pandemic is over?
4.
On May 21, during the day, I experienced a sudden and severe dizziness accompanied by a headache, followed by vomiting (lasting about 5-10 minutes).

5.
For the past few days, I have been worried every night that I might not wake up!

Guo, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/26

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it sounds more like a case of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, possibly caused by anxiety due to the pandemic.
It is recommended to observe the situation for now; if it does not improve, you can visit the hospital for further evaluation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2021/05/26

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms related to your breathing and overall health. Given the complexity of your situation, it is crucial to approach this with care and seek appropriate medical attention. Here’s a breakdown of your symptoms and some guidance on when to seek help.

1. Frequent Tightness in the Throat and Difficulty Breathing: The sensation of tightness in the throat and the need to exert effort to breathe can be indicative of several conditions, including anxiety, asthma, or even an allergic reaction. If this sensation has become more frequent, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly pulmonary function tests, to determine the underlying cause.

2. Abdominal Discomfort and Numbness: The symptoms you describe—tightness and numbness that radiates from your abdomen to your neck and arms—are concerning. This could be related to anxiety or panic attacks, but it may also indicate a more serious condition, such as a cardiovascular issue. It is critical to seek medical advice, especially if these symptoms persist or worsen.

3. Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulties: Occasional chest pain, especially if it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, should not be taken lightly. While it could be related to anxiety or muscle strain, it is essential to rule out any cardiac issues. Given your description of the pain and the context of your other symptoms, it would be prudent to see a doctor as soon as possible rather than waiting for the pandemic to subside.

4. Severe Dizziness and Nausea: The episode of severe dizziness, headache, and vomiting you experienced is particularly alarming. This could be related to a variety of factors, including dehydration, a migraine, or even a more serious neurological issue. If this happens again, or if you continue to feel unwell, you should seek immediate medical attention.

5. Anxiety About Waking Up: Feeling anxious about your health and worrying about not waking up can be a sign of heightened anxiety or panic disorder. While anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, it is essential to address both the psychological and physical aspects of your health. Speaking to a mental health professional can be beneficial, alongside consulting with a physician about your physical symptoms.

Recommendations:
- Immediate Medical Attention: Given the combination of your symptoms, especially the chest pain, difficulty breathing, and severe dizziness, I recommend seeking medical attention promptly. Do not wait for the pandemic situation to improve; your health is a priority.

- Emergency Care: If you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain that radiates to your arm or jaw, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical care immediately.

- Follow-Up: After your initial consultation, ensure you follow up with any recommended tests or referrals to specialists, such as a cardiologist or pulmonologist, to get a comprehensive understanding of your health.

- Mental Health Support: Consider reaching out to a mental health professional to help manage anxiety and stress, which can significantly impact your physical health.

In summary, your symptoms warrant immediate attention, and it is essential to prioritize your health by consulting with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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