Chest Pain: Is It Heart Disease or Something Else?

I have been experiencing some chest pain recently?

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing some pain in my left chest recently, which came on suddenly.
I have also been feeling lethargic.
My height is 159 cm and I weigh 63 kg, which classifies me as obese.
Five days ago, I was scolded by my family, and since then I have felt some pain in my left chest, along with dizziness and difficulty breathing.
I also have experienced tinnitus, similar to the dizziness I felt the first time I donated blood due to nervousness.
That day, I had just started my menstrual period.
I had an upper endoscopy at the end of last year, which revealed symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and recently I have also felt some discomfort in my stomach.
Could this be related to my stomach issues, or is it due to my menstrual period, or could I be experiencing heart disease?

Yan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/06

Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology

The message from the online user suggests that the symptoms described are more likely due to emotional dysregulation leading to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can also cause gastritis and acid reflux.
It is advisable to consult an internist for examination and treatment.
Dr.
Chung Yu-Hsuan

Reply Date: 2005/04/06

More Info

Chest pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action. In your case, the left chest pain you are experiencing, along with feelings of dizziness, difficulty breathing, and tinnitus, can stem from various sources, including gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, or even cardiac concerns.

Given your history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is possible that your chest pain could be related to acid reflux. GERD can cause discomfort that mimics heart-related pain, often described as a burning sensation in the chest. This discomfort can be exacerbated by stress, certain foods, or even hormonal changes associated with your menstrual cycle. The timing of your symptoms, coinciding with your period, might suggest that hormonal fluctuations could be contributing to your overall discomfort.

Additionally, the stress from being reprimanded by family members may have triggered anxiety, which can manifest physically as chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which might explain your feelings of breathlessness and dizziness. The mind-body connection is powerful, and emotional stress can significantly impact physical health.

However, it is essential not to overlook the possibility of cardiac issues, especially considering your weight and the sudden onset of symptoms. While your symptoms may not fit the classic presentation of a heart attack (such as severe, crushing chest pain radiating to the arm or jaw), it is still important to rule out any serious conditions. Factors such as obesity can increase the risk of heart disease, and symptoms like chest pain should always be taken seriously.

To address your concerns, I recommend the following steps:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given the combination of symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform an electrocardiogram (EKG) and other tests to assess your heart's health and rule out any cardiac issues.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any accompanying symptoms. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

3. Consider Lifestyle Changes: If your weight is a concern, adopting a healthier diet and incorporating regular physical activity can improve your overall health and potentially reduce the risk of both gastrointestinal and cardiovascular issues.

4. Manage Stress: Finding effective ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness, meditation, or counseling, can help alleviate anxiety-related symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

5. Follow Up on Gastrointestinal Issues: Since you have a history of acid reflux, it may be beneficial to follow up with a gastroenterologist to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options that can help manage your GERD.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety or gastrointestinal issues, it is crucial to rule out any potential heart problems. Seeking medical advice and undergoing appropriate testing will provide clarity and peace of mind. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain and other concerning symptoms.

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