Chest Pain: Post-Surgery Symptoms or Heart Issues?

Chest pain

I underwent a fibroma surgery on my left chest in February 2022.
Postoperatively, I did not experience any significant pain, only occasional discomfort.
Recently, I have been experiencing two unusual sensations in my left chest.
First, there is a feeling of being enveloped inside the chest; during this sensation, my heartbeat remains regular, but I can feel it more distinctly.
Second, I experience intermittent sharp pains that last for a few seconds or even less than a second before disappearing.
During both of these occurrences, I am fully aware, my breathing is smooth, and I do not feel any irregularities in my heart rate, although it may accelerate due to anxiety.
These sensations occur only while sitting or lying down, not when I am standing or exercising.
I would like to know if this could be related to a heart issue or if it is a postoperative complication related to the chest muscles.
Thank you, doctor!

Wang Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/07

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology

Due to your young age and the absence of chronic diseases, your risk of developing heart disease is low.
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this situation, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages.
It is advisable to adjust your lifestyle and engage in regular exercise.
However, if symptoms persist, it is still recommended to visit a hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination.

Reply Date: 2023/02/07

More Info

Understanding chest pain, especially after a surgical procedure, can be complex and multifaceted. In your case, having undergone a fibroma surgery in February 2022, it is essential to differentiate between post-surgical symptoms and potential cardiac issues.
The sensations you describe—feeling as if your chest is "wrapped" and experiencing intermittent sharp pains—can arise from various sources. Given that you had surgery on the left side of your chest, it is plausible that some of these sensations are related to the surgical site. Post-operative pain or discomfort can persist for some time, and nerve endings in the area may still be healing, leading to unusual sensations.
1. Post-Surgical Symptoms: After any surgery, especially in the thoracic region, it is common to experience residual pain or discomfort. This can manifest as tightness, a feeling of pressure, or even sharp pains. The sensation of your heart beating more noticeably could be due to heightened awareness of your body post-surgery, especially if you are more attuned to any changes in your body after the operation. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate these feelings, leading to a heightened perception of normal bodily functions, such as heartbeat.

2. Musculoskeletal Issues: The chest wall comprises muscles, nerves, and connective tissues that can be affected by surgery. If the surgery involved manipulation of the chest wall or surrounding tissues, it could lead to muscle strain or irritation, resulting in pain or discomfort. This is particularly true if you have been less active post-surgery or if your posture has changed due to discomfort.

3. Cardiac Concerns: While your symptoms do not immediately suggest a cardiac issue, it is crucial to consider them, especially if they are new or have changed in nature. The absence of irregular heartbeats, clear breathing, and awareness during these episodes are reassuring signs. However, if you experience any additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, prolonged chest pain, or other concerning signs, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

4. Anxiety and Stress: The psychological aspect of recovery cannot be overlooked. Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, including chest tightness and pain. If you find that your symptoms correlate with periods of stress or anxiety, addressing these factors through relaxation techniques, counseling, or other methods may help alleviate your discomfort.

5. When to Seek Help: If your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other concerning signs (such as significant changes in heart rate, shortness of breath, or prolonged pain), it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or imaging studies, to rule out any underlying cardiac issues.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to post-surgical changes or musculoskeletal issues, it is essential to remain vigilant. Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is crucial for monitoring your recovery and addressing any new or concerning symptoms. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.

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