Post-Vaccine Symptoms: Chest Pain and Shortness of Breath

After receiving the COVID-19 vaccine

Hello Dr.
Hou, after receiving my first dose of the BNT vaccine on October 22, I experienced fever, followed by chest tightness, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, back pain (radiating from the inner side of my right shoulder blade to my neck), sharp chest pain, fatigue, and dizziness starting the next day.
I also had pre-existing conditions of a herniated disc and hamstring strain, which contributed to my discomfort.
Initially, I thought these symptoms were just side effects and didn't pay much attention.
However, on the fifth night, while resting, I suddenly felt a worsening of symptoms and had a sensation of fainting, prompting me to visit the emergency room for blood tests, an electrocardiogram, and X-rays, all of which came back normal.
The doctor suggested that it might be due to anxiety and administered a muscle relaxant.
Over the next two weeks, I visited the emergency room and followed up with a cardiologist twice, receiving the same feedback that side effects could last for several months.
I later saw news reports indicating that pain in the "gāo huāng" area could lead to the symptoms I was experiencing, so I consulted an orthopedic doctor, but he said it was not his area of expertise.

More than a month has passed, and during this time, I sought treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for the "gāo huāng" issue.
Currently, my symptoms have somewhat alleviated, but the original pain in the inner side of my right shoulder blade has now spread to discomfort across my entire back, which is painful to the touch.
I still occasionally experience sharp chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat.
Although I no longer feel like I'm going to faint as I did initially, these sensations still occur several times a day.
Therefore, I would like to ask Dr.
Hou what could be the possible causes of my condition and which specialty I should consult.
Thank you.

RG, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/14

Dr. Hou Angting reply Family Medicine

Hello, if you have already been examined by a cardiologist and no significant issues were found, I recommend that you consult with a pain specialist for further evaluation, treatment, and follow-up.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/14

More Info

Post-vaccine symptoms, particularly after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, can be concerning and often lead to questions about their implications for heart health and overall well-being. Your experience of chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms following the administration of the BNT vaccine is not uncommon, but it is essential to approach these symptoms with caution and seek appropriate medical advice.

Firstly, it is important to understand that vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccines, can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include fatigue, headache, muscle pain, fever, and localized pain at the injection site. However, some individuals may experience more unusual symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath. These symptoms can be attributed to several factors, including anxiety, muscle strain, or even pre-existing conditions exacerbated by the stress of vaccination.

In your case, the symptoms you described—chest tightness, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate—could be related to a few different factors. Given your history of back pain and muscle strain, it is possible that these symptoms are musculoskeletal in nature. Muscle tension and spasms can often mimic cardiac symptoms, leading to discomfort in the chest area. Additionally, anxiety related to the vaccination process can also contribute to feelings of chest tightness and shortness of breath.

The fact that you have undergone multiple evaluations, including blood tests, electrocardiograms (EKGs), and chest X-rays, and that these tests returned normal results is reassuring. It suggests that there is no immediate cardiac issue that requires urgent intervention. However, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. It may be beneficial to consult with a specialist in pain management or a cardiologist who can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your symptoms.

It is also worth noting that some individuals report prolonged symptoms following vaccination, which may be related to a phenomenon known as post-vaccine syndrome. This syndrome can include a variety of symptoms that persist beyond the typical recovery period. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it is believed that the immune response triggered by the vaccine may play a role in these prolonged symptoms.

In terms of management, it is crucial to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your symptoms. Engaging in gentle physical activity, practicing relaxation techniques, and considering cognitive behavioral therapy may help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall well-being. If muscle strain is suspected, physical therapy may also be beneficial in addressing any underlying musculoskeletal issues.

In summary, while your symptoms following the BNT vaccine are concerning, the normal results from your medical evaluations are a positive sign. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and seek further evaluation from appropriate specialists if they persist or worsen. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing both physical and emotional aspects of your symptoms is key to recovery. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

Similar Q&A

Post-Vaccine Reactions: Understanding Chest Pain and Discomfort

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my condition. After receiving my third vaccine dose on April 23, I experienced a fever for the first two days. On the third day, I had symptoms of chest tightness and chest pain (approximately in the center of my chest). By the fourth ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, what you described could indeed be vaccine side effects. However, most vaccine side effects typically improve without the need for treatment. If your symptoms gradually become milder, you do not need to seek medical attention. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, the...

Post-Vaccine Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention After Moderna Shot

Hello, doctor. I recently received my second dose of the Moderna vaccine, and it's been five days. I've been experiencing pain in my arm when making larger movements (like shaking, running, or jumping), but it doesn't hurt much when I'm resting. I also have na...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, these are indeed possible phenomena after vaccination. It is not necessarily required to seek medical attention immediately unless the symptoms become more pronounced or if you experience fever, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other co...

Post-Vaccine Symptoms: Chest Pain and Heart Rhythm Issues Explained

Hello, Director. I would like to ask about experiencing symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and occasional wheezing after receiving the third dose of the vaccine (Pfizer, Pfizer, Moderna). These symptoms have persisted for about two months, and they tend to occ...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
Vaccines are not related to mitral valve prolapse. If symptoms do not improve, please go to the hospital for a thorough examination.

Managing Anxiety and Chest Tightness After Vaccination: A Guide

Hello doctor, after receiving the vaccine two years ago, I have been feeling anxious about any physical condition, worrying that I might be experiencing vaccine side effects. Initially, I thought this would improve within 2 to 3 months after vaccination, but this year, the situat...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hi there! It seems that you have undergone blood tests, X-rays, and electrocardiograms, all of which came back normal. This at least confirms that there is no serious physical illness. However, your concern about possibly having a severe illness or even dying is actually a sympto...