Chest Pain and Low Blood Oxygen After COVID-19 Vaccination

Q: Chest Pain and Low Blood Oxygen After COVID-19 Vaccination

Hello： Based on your description, your symptoms may be related to heart or lung issues. <br>As for whether there is a connection to the vaccine, it would require further evaluation of relevant medical reports. <br>I recommend that you first visit a cardiology or pulmonology clini

Chest pain, low blood oxygen levels?

Hello, doctor! I was diagnosed with Covid-19 around June last year, but I did not have any significant chest pain symptoms at that time.
However, after receiving the BNT vaccine in November, I began to experience occasional chest pain.
After getting the second dose this year, the frequency of chest pain has significantly increased, and I have also started to experience symptoms of chest tightness.
I usually have high blood pressure, but I am on medication to control it.
Is there a connection between chest pain and high blood pressure? Additionally, in the past few days, I have experienced stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
After exercising in the evening, I started to notice low blood oxygen levels, which remained around 88-94 even after resting for 2-3 hours.
At night, I unconsciously breathe faster and have difficulty falling asleep.
Until today, I have never experienced low blood oxygen levels.
Could you please advise what might be causing this? Should I see a pulmonologist, or is there another specialty I should consult?

CC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/02

Dr. Wang Lanfeng reply Pulmonology

Hello: Based on your description, your symptoms may be related to heart or lung issues.
As for whether there is a connection to the vaccine, it would require further evaluation of relevant medical reports.
I recommend that you first visit a cardiology or pulmonology clinic for assessment.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/05/02

More Info

Chest pain and low blood oxygen levels can be concerning symptoms, especially following a COVID-19 vaccination. It's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention.
First, regarding your chest pain, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience some degree of discomfort after receiving a vaccine, particularly in the days following the injection. This can be due to localized inflammation at the injection site or a general immune response. However, since you mentioned that your chest pain has increased in frequency after your second dose of the BNT vaccine, it is essential to consider other potential causes.
High blood pressure can contribute to chest pain, especially if it is poorly controlled. Hypertension can lead to increased strain on the heart and blood vessels, which may manifest as chest discomfort. Additionally, if you have a history of cardiovascular issues, this could also be a contributing factor. It is crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly and ensure it remains within a healthy range, as uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications.

The symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, such as stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting, can also be related to stress or anxiety, which may be exacerbated by your current health concerns. Stress can lead to increased muscle tension and even mimic cardiac symptoms, which can be confusing.
Regarding your low blood oxygen levels, a reading of 88-94% is considered low, as normal oxygen saturation levels typically range from 95% to 100%. Low oxygen saturation can be caused by various factors, including respiratory issues, anxiety, or even the effects of physical exertion. If you are experiencing shortness of breath or increased respiratory rate, it is crucial to address these symptoms promptly.
Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. A pulmonologist (lung specialist) or a cardiologist would be appropriate for evaluating your chest pain and low blood oxygen levels. They can perform necessary tests, such as a chest X-ray, echocardiogram, or pulmonary function tests, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
In the meantime, if you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other alarming symptoms, it is essential to seek emergency medical attention immediately.
In summary, while some degree of discomfort can be expected after vaccination, the persistence and increase in your symptoms warrant further investigation. Monitoring your blood pressure, managing stress, and seeking timely medical advice will be crucial in addressing your health concerns effectively.

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