Unexplained Chest and Throat Pain: A Comprehensive Guide

Difficult-to-explain body pain?

Since childhood, I have experienced episodes of pain approximately every six months in my respiratory system, specifically in the area just below my throat, extending to both sides of my chest.
The pain feels like a cramping sensation, almost as if it is pulling on the nerves inside my body, radiating from the throat down to the chest and even to the stomach, lasting about half a minute before subsiding.
During these episodes, I feel completely weak and often have to stop all activities and sit down to rest before the pain goes away.
However, in the past year, these episodes have become much more frequent; what used to occur every six months now happens several times within a few days.

I recall an incident about three or four months ago when the pain occurred again, lasting nearly five minutes.
During that episode, I had to curl up, and I broke out in a cold sweat, feeling as if I might faint.
Fortunately, after about five minutes, the pain gradually subsided.
Since then, up to today, I have been experiencing this pain almost daily, although it only lasts for a few seconds at a time.
Sometimes it occurs multiple times in a single day.
I also notice that coughing can trigger the pain, and it can happen after exercising or doing household chores when I feel short of breath.
Currently, I cannot have cold air blowing directly on my chest or heart area, as it causes significant pain.
Three months ago, I consulted a cardiologist who performed an echocardiogram and a chest X-ray.
The doctor indicated that there was nothing serious, suggesting it might be related to muscle pain, and prescribed pain relief medication while advising me not to lift heavy objects.
However, the doctor did mention that there is a congenital issue with one of the "valves" in my heart that closes in the wrong direction, but it is not severe and is common among some women.
The doctor advised me to monitor it and recommended annual check-ups to ensure that the valve does not narrow further, which could lead to breathing difficulties.

Could you please tell me what condition this might be? Is it related to the pain I described?

Picco, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/10/15

Dr. Lai Hexian reply Family Medicine

Hello, due to the fact that "What disease is this?" may involve diagnostic actions, responding online would violate the Medical Practitioners Act.
Please visit a clinic for further medical evaluation.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2010/10/15

More Info

Understanding unexplained chest and throat pain can be quite complex, especially when the symptoms have evolved over time, as you described. Your experience of intermittent pain that feels like muscle spasms or nerve pain in the throat and chest area, along with the accompanying symptoms of weakness and sweating, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that chest pain can originate from various sources, including musculoskeletal issues, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiac conditions. Given that you have already consulted a cardiologist and undergone tests such as an echocardiogram and chest X-ray, it seems that serious cardiac issues have been ruled out. However, the presence of a congenital heart condition, as mentioned by your doctor, should be monitored, especially if it has the potential to affect your breathing.

Musculoskeletal pain is a common cause of chest discomfort, particularly if the pain is sharp and related to movement or certain positions. Conditions such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum) or muscle strain can lead to similar symptoms. The fact that your pain has become more frequent and is triggered by activities like coughing or exertion suggests that it could be related to muscle tension or strain, especially if you have been more active or stressed.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is another potential cause of chest pain that can mimic cardiac symptoms. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to discomfort that can radiate to the chest and throat. Symptoms may include a burning sensation, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling of tightness in the throat. If you notice that certain foods or activities exacerbate your symptoms, it may be worth discussing this possibility with your healthcare provider.

Anxiety and stress can also manifest as physical symptoms, including chest pain. The body’s response to stress can lead to muscle tension, hyperventilation, and even panic attacks, which can cause sensations of chest pain and discomfort. Given that your symptoms have increased in frequency and intensity, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques or consult a mental health professional if anxiety is a contributing factor.

In terms of your symptoms worsening over the past year, it’s crucial to keep a detailed record of when the pain occurs, its duration, any associated symptoms (like sweating or shortness of breath), and potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause.

Since your symptoms have become more frequent and are affecting your daily life, it may be prudent to seek a follow-up appointment with a healthcare provider. They might consider further evaluations, such as a referral to a gastroenterologist for potential GERD or an evaluation by a pain specialist if musculoskeletal issues are suspected. Additionally, if anxiety is a concern, discussing this with a mental health professional could provide you with strategies to manage your symptoms effectively.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe underlying condition, they warrant further investigation to identify the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and any changes you notice, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

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