Unusual Thumping Sensation in Chest
Female, 27, Height: 5'9", United Kingdom I’ve made several trips to the emergency room due to various symptoms, where medical professionals have attributed my issues to anxiety, GERD, or sometimes, they couldn't provide a clear diagnosis. I’m aware that they’re busy with genuine emergencies and don’t want to seem like I’m taking up their time unnecessarily, particularly since my symptoms mimic health anxiety. For more than three days now, I have been experiencing significant muscle twitches throughout my body. The most prominent and irritating sensation occurs beneath my left breast. It’s difficult to determine whether it’s muscular discomfort or something else entirely. I feel a persistent pressure in that area, and occasionally, I notice my body trembles with each heartbeat. This sensation is unlike any palpitations I’ve ever encountered before. My heart rate stays below 90 beats per minute unless I engage in physical activity. I’m not experiencing dizziness or shortness of breath, though I do occasionally have breath shortness episodes coinciding with the twitching. This occurs roughly every minute. My general practitioner suggested that I try to relax and get some rest, but I find it challenging to do so. Has anyone else experienced similar sensations or symptoms?
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 9:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about unusual sensations in your chest, especially after multiple emergency visits where you didn't receive clear answers. The symptoms you're experiencing, including the persistent pressure, muscle twitching, and tremors, can indeed feel unsettling.
Explanation
Based on your description, it sounds like you're dealing with a combination of physical sensations that might be related to muscle tension, anxiety, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as your doctor suggested. The thumping or twitching feeling under your left breast could be linked to muscle spasms or tension in that area, which can be influenced by stress. It's also possible for anxiety to manifest in physical symptoms, making it challenging to differentiate between genuine medical issues and anxiety-related sensations.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized actions you can take to help manage your symptoms:
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Consider using deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation. This approach may help reduce anxiety and alleviate some physical sensations. Even short sessions can make a difference.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track when the sensations occur, their intensity, and any triggers like stress or certain activities. This information can help both you and your healthcare provider identify patterns.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and eat balanced meals. Sometimes, dehydration or certain foods can exacerbate GERD symptoms, leading to increased discomfort.
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Gentle Exercise: If you feel able, engage in light physical activity like walking or stretching. This can help reduce muscle tension and improve overall well-being.
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Avoid Known Triggers: If certain foods or beverages seem to worsen your symptoms (like spicy or acidic items), it may be helpful to minimize their intake.
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Consider Professional Support: If anxiety continues to impact your daily life, reaching out to a therapist or counselor can provide you with tools to manage stress and anxiety more effectively.
If your symptoms worsen (such as experiencing increased discomfort, significant changes in heart rate, or new symptoms like severe dizziness), it's important to seek medical advice promptly. It's essential that you feel supported and listened to regarding your health concerns. You're not alone in experiencing these sensations, and addressing both your physical and emotional well-being is crucial.
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