Persistent Chest Pain: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Q: Persistent Chest Pain: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Dear Ivy： Your symptoms may be related to valvular heart disease, neuralgia, pleuritis, or anxiety. <br>I suggest you come to the hospital for a chest X-ray and EKG studies to confirm the final diagnosis, and the doctor can provide you with the appropriate treatment.

hurt

I have been experiencing heart pain for 21 hours (maybe more) from 11 PM to 9 PM.
I cannot take deep breaths, laugh, or perform any physical activities.
Initially, I thought I would feel better after going to bed, but when I woke up the next morning, the pain persisted.
Breathing increases the pain.

ivy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/07/24

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine

Dear Ivy: Your symptoms may be related to valvular heart disease, neuralgia, pleuritis, or anxiety.
I suggest you come to the hospital for a chest X-ray and EKG studies to confirm the final diagnosis, and the doctor can provide you with the appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2001/07/24

More Info

Persistent chest pain can be a concerning symptom and should not be taken lightly. Given your description of experiencing heart pain for over 21 hours, along with difficulty breathing and an inability to engage in normal activities, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Chest pain can arise from various causes, some of which may be serious and require immediate intervention.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that chest pain can stem from cardiac issues, such as angina or even a heart attack. Angina is characterized by chest discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, often triggered by physical exertion or stress. A heart attack, on the other hand, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to damage to the heart muscle. Symptoms of a heart attack may include chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, along with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness.

However, chest pain is not solely indicative of heart problems. Other potential causes include gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux or esophageal spasms, which can mimic heart pain. Musculoskeletal conditions, such as costochondritis or muscle strain, can also lead to chest discomfort. Additionally, anxiety and panic attacks can manifest as chest pain and difficulty breathing, often accompanied by a sense of impending doom.

Given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek immediate medical evaluation. A healthcare professional will likely perform a thorough assessment, which may include a physical examination, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and possibly blood tests to check for markers of heart damage. Depending on the findings, further imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray or echocardiogram, may be warranted to rule out other conditions.

In the meantime, it is essential to avoid any activities that exacerbate your pain and to remain calm. If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, difficulty breathing, or any signs of a heart attack, do not hesitate to call emergency services.

In summary, persistent chest pain, especially when accompanied by difficulty breathing and lasting for an extended period, warrants immediate medical attention. It is crucial to rule out serious conditions and receive appropriate care. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain.

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