Unexplained Chest Discomfort and Body Symptoms

Physical discomfort?

Hello Doctor: Recently, due to the pandemic, I have been staying at home and I'm not sure if it's because of frequently using the air conditioning that I have been experiencing some minor health issues.
I do not have any underlying health conditions; I only took medication for anxiety for two months two years ago, and I haven't taken any medication since then.
Before the pandemic, I did not have these issues.
One of the recent symptoms is that while I am sleeping, I suddenly feel a cold sensation in my chest, so cold that it causes my chest to shiver for a few minutes before it gradually eases.
The air conditioning was set to 26 degrees Celsius, which shouldn't be too cold.
This has happened twice in the past two months, with a significant gap in between, but I have never experienced this before.

Additionally, since the end of May, I have had sudden chest pain in the middle of my chest that gradually subsides.
The first time it occurred, the pain was intense, and I took a Tylenol, but at other times, it has been bearable.
In the past few days, I'm not sure if it's due to my posture or something else, but sometimes I experience a sharp pain in the same spot in the middle of my chest.
It doesn't hurt when I press on it, but when I expand my chest or bend it in a way that engages the chest muscles, I feel some pain.
Although the pain seems to be gradually diminishing, I still feel a bit uneasy.

Another issue is that I have been taking my temperature irregularly.
In the morning, it is usually around 36.5 degrees Celsius, but in the afternoon or evening, it can rise to between 37 and 37.5 degrees Celsius, and my skin feels somewhat warm.
Is this normal? I have also considered whether my irregular sleep schedule might be causing these problems, as I only feel sleepy around 5 or 6 AM and sleep until around noon.
I haven't been exercising and hardly sweat at all, but I hope to receive a professional assessment from a doctor to feel more at ease or to determine if I really need to seek medical attention.
Thank you for your response.

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/24

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, you are experiencing abnormal temperature regulation, chest pain, and sleep issues, and it seems you can identify triggers for these symptoms.
I recommend that even if you are staying at home due to the pandemic, you should plan a regular daily routine and find suitable exercises, gradually increasing to at least thirty minutes each day.
This should help improve your chest pain and sleep problems.
If these issues persist, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Regarding the abnormal temperature regulation, it is important to observe whether it is related to the environmental temperature.
You might want to measure it.
The nighttime radiative cooling effect can lower temperatures, and using air conditioning may significantly decrease the ambient temperature, which could explain why you feel cold.
Additionally, if your body temperature is elevated in the afternoon or evening, please monitor your hydration levels and whether you are using air conditioning.
If you experience any other discomforting symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare facility.

Reply Date: 2021/06/24

More Info

Your symptoms of unexplained chest discomfort and other bodily sensations are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation. It’s important to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of both physical and psychological health, especially considering your history of anxiety and recent lifestyle changes due to the pandemic.

Firstly, the sensation of coldness in your chest, especially when it leads to shivering, could be indicative of several factors. One possibility is that it may be related to anxiety or panic attacks, which can manifest physically in various ways, including sensations of cold or discomfort in the chest area. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which might cause feelings of coldness or tightness in the chest. However, it’s crucial to rule out any potential cardiac issues, especially since you mentioned experiencing chest pain.
The chest pain you described, particularly if it is sharp or stabbing, could be related to musculoskeletal issues, especially if it worsens with certain movements or postures. Conditions such as costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum, can cause localized chest pain that may mimic heart-related pain. However, given your history and the nature of your symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional who can perform a physical examination and possibly recommend imaging studies or other diagnostic tests to rule out any serious conditions.

Regarding your fluctuating body temperature, it is not uncommon for body temperature to vary throughout the day. Normal body temperature can range from about 36.1°C (97°F) to 37.2°C (99°F) depending on various factors, including the time of day, activity level, and even hormonal changes. However, consistently elevated temperatures, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like sweating or chills, should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out infections or other underlying conditions.

Your irregular sleep schedule and lack of physical activity can also contribute to feelings of discomfort and anxiety. Sleep is crucial for physical and mental health, and disruptions in your sleep pattern can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and lead to physical symptoms. Regular exercise is known to improve mood and reduce anxiety, so incorporating even light physical activity into your routine could be beneficial.

Given your symptoms and history, it would be wise to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can conduct a thorough assessment, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests or imaging studies, to determine if there are any underlying medical issues. Additionally, considering your previous experience with anxiety, it may also be helpful to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide support and strategies to manage anxiety, which may alleviate some of your physical symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety or lifestyle factors, it is essential to rule out any serious medical conditions. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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