Experiencing Chest Discomfort Despite Being Cleared of Heart Issues
Recently, I (26, male-to-female) have been grappling with unexpected and intense panic attacks without any clear provocation. I stand 5 feet 10 inches tall and weigh 160 pounds, currently on a regimen that includes estradiol, spironolactone, and progesterone. I've never smoked, but I did experience a pneumothorax last year, which has not resulted in any ongoing issues since then. While it seems that anxiety may be the primary cause of my current symptoms, I've been feeling a moderate yet persistent discomfort in my left chest area for the past 36 hours, raising concerns that it could be heart-related. I am also experiencing mild shortness of breath, although it is not nearly as severe as the past episode of pneumothorax, which has been ruled out multiple times via X-rays. Lately, I've noticed that my heart rate tends to increase more easily and I become slightly breathless with minimal exertion; simply standing up from a seated position bumps my heart rate to the mid-90s. I find relief by sitting back down and taking a moment to relax. The pressure in my chest does not exactly feel sharp, yet it is more pronounced than other similar sensations I have experienced. After enduring a lengthy nine-hour panic attack yesterday (which occurred without any triggering thoughts), I sought medical attention at the emergency room. They conducted an EKG, which showed normal results, and tested my d-dimer levels, which came back fine except with a minutely elevated white blood cell count. I was discharged with advice to manage my anxiety and consider seeking medication. I acknowledge that this is a prudent step I plan to take. However, it has now been a full day and a few hours since then, and I've noted that the discomfort has intensified slightly—though I would not rate it as severe, perhaps a 2.5 or 3 out of 10 instead of yesterday's 2. I am contemplating whether I should keep an eye on this development to see if it resolves on its own, or should I return for further evaluation, considering that I received a clean bill of health despite the d-dimer test being almost universally accurate, according to the medical advice I was given.
Answers (1)
8/30/2025, 6:22:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about chest discomfort, especially when you're experiencing anxiety and past health issues. Given your recent evaluation and normal EKG findings, coupled with your ongoing anxiety, it's likely your symptoms may be related to panic attacks rather than a heart issue. However, keeping an eye on your symptoms is wise.
Explanation:
Chest discomfort and shortness of breath can frequently arise from anxiety, particularly with panic attacks. While the normal tests suggest there are no immediate heart issues, it's crucial to monitor any changes in your symptoms, especially since they have slightly intensified. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms that mimic cardiac issues, and it's common for individuals experiencing panic to notice their heart rates increase with minor exertion.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of when the discomfort occurs, its intensity, and any accompanying symptoms. Note any patterns or potential triggers.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices to help manage immediate anxiety during episodes. Techniques like box breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can be helpful.
- Stay Hydrated and Rest: Ensure you drink plenty of fluids and avoid excessive caffeine, which can heighten anxiety.
- Gradual Activity: If you feel capable, gradually attempt light activities (like walking) and observe how your body reacts, while being aware of your limits.
- Follow Up: If the discomfort persists or worsens, or you experience new symptoms (like severe breathlessness, chest pain increasing significantly, or palpitations), it would be wise to seek further medical evaluation.
Your plan to seek additional support for managing anxiety, including potential medication, is an excellent proactive step. It can significantly enhance your ability to cope with these sensations and eventually reduce their frequency. Remember, you're not alone in this, and taking action on your mental health is just as important as physical health.
Related Questions
Experiencing Unusual Sensitivity to Paracetamol
Hello, Reddit community! I'm a newcomer here, so please bear with me as I navigate this platform as well as the rules. I appreciate your understanding regarding my writing skills. I find myself in a situation that lacks sufficient information online, and I'm reaching out for insights from others. Currently, I have reasons to believe that I might be experiencing a unique sensitivity to paracetamol, and I’d like to share my timeline regarding this matter. Throughout my life, I generally had no issues with paracetamol. I used various brands multiple times and felt fine. However, starting in the fourth grade, I began to experience difficulties with it. My initial problems were respiratory-related, but soon they also affected my gastrointestinal system. I haven't had any formal testing yet, but I can safely use other pain relievers like NSAIDs without any adverse effects. Initially, I tolerated paracetamol relatively well; my early symptoms seemed like common side effects. Unfortunately, it escalated to severe reactions, including vomiting, tightening of the throat, blood in my mucus, and shortness of breath. In my confusion, I thought limiting my dosage could help, which it did temporarily, but eventually even the reduced amounts failed to be effective. I experimented with syrup formulations that contain less paracetamol or where it isn't the primary ingredient, and found those to be more manageable. Recently, however, even those have become problematic, making it necessary for me to seek alternatives to paracetamol, as it has become increasingly intolerable. Through my research, I discovered that such reactions often stem from cross-sensitivity to other medications or from preexisting respiratory conditions. I lack a history of asthma or other respiratory issues, so I’m inclined to dismiss that possibility, although I remain uncertain. Moreover, I have no known allergies, which adds to my confusion since my reactions only occur with this one particular medication while all others seem fine. It is difficult for me to process this change, especially since I used to have no issues with paracetamol. It is widely available and generally considered safe, so I struggle to understand the source of my suffering. Many people insist that these reactions are normal side effects, leading me to question whether I am overreacting. The immediacy of my reactions intensifies my concern; I don’t even need to swallow the medication completely before I notice my throat constricting, increased mucus production, and shortly thereafter, some blood in my mucus along with persistent coughing. This pattern has become consistent, whereas it used to depend on the dosage. Now, regardless of how much I take, the same symptoms occur. I’ve tried to dismiss it, not wanting to worry my parents or seek medical attention for a dosage safety test, fearing I’ve already pushed my body too much. However, I am considering discussing my concerns with my mother since she is increasingly worried about my use of this medication. I’m not seeking a diagnosis or medical advice—I understand I should probably consult a professional. I’m just interested in knowing if anyone else has faced similar experiences, as the confusion grows. What I once assumed were normal side effects now seem to signify something more concerning.
Chronic Hypersomnia Since Adolescence: A Seeking Path for Answers
I am a 30-year-old white male, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds, residing in the United States. **Current Medications:** - Adderall XR 40 mg - Sunosi 150 mg - Lisinopril 40 mg - Atenolol 25 mg - Tolvaptan 60 mg **Medical Background:** - Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) at stage 2 (eGFR 67) - Obstructive Sleep Apnea (utilizing CPAP machine since July 2024) - Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) **Symptoms Experienced:** - Persistent and overwhelming sleepiness—more than just fatigue—accompanied by a heavy feeling in my face and chest; I struggle to keep my eyes open and often feel as if I am burdened. - I sleep for 10 to 14 hours every night, supplemented by involuntary naps lasting 1 to 2 hours multiple times throughout the day. - None of my sleep feels restorative, leading to a groggy, hangover-like state upon waking. - Cognitive challenges including a lack of focus, forgetfulness, and trouble retrieving words, which have grown more pronounced over the last four years. - Activities as simple as showering or cooking now feel like moving through molasses. - I experience low physical endurance and lengthy recovery times, even though I previously maintained a regular exercise routine. My late father exhibited similar symptoms with the addition of seizures he associated with alcoholism, although he was never assessed medically. I, on the other hand, do not have any alcohol or addiction issues. **Specialist Consultations:** - **Sleep Specialist:** A Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) ruled out narcolepsy with no Sleep Onset REM Periods (SOREMs) and a 12-minute latency. I comply with CPAP therapy for an average of eight hours each night, but there has been no alleviation of my symptoms. Testing revealed no periodic limb movement disorders, alpha-delta intrusions, or unexplained nighttime arousals. - **Nephrologist:** Symptoms are considered unlikely to stem from my current stage of ADPKD. Tests show I’m not anemic, with standard iron levels. - **Rheumatologist:** An ANA titer of 1:320 with a speckled and nucleolar pattern appears elevated; however, all specific autoimmune tests returned negative. Monitoring was suggested without a clear diagnosis provided. - **Psychiatrist:** It was determined that my symptoms do not seem to be connected to mental health issues. My therapist has also validated in a letter that my condition is unrelated to psychological factors. - **Miscellaneous Findings:** An arachnoid cyst was detected in my brain. My white blood cell count is borderline low and my red blood cell count alternates between normal and low realms. Testosterone levels are within the normal range, though morning cortisol is slightly elevated. Normetanephrine is elevated at 2.15 nmol/L, while metanephrine remains normal at 0.27 nmol/L. Both Vitamin D and B12 levels are adequate. Tests for STIs returned negative results. **Current Situation:** I am currently on disability, unable to work even in part-time capacities and can no longer engage in exercise, finding myself nearly confined to my home. I feel as though I am being sent from one specialist to another without gaining clarity on my condition. What avenues should I explore next? Which type of medical professional might offer further insight? I'm beginning to doubt my own experiences, pondering if I am merely being lazy or overly sensitive.
Sudden Stabbing Throat Pain
As a 19-year-old female, I find myself dealing with a sudden, intense pain localized on the right side of my throat, adjacent to my windpipe and beneath my chin. These episodes are unpredictable; they strike without warning, persist for just a fleeting moment, and then vanish completely. This situation is genuinely concerning for me. I'm at a loss for how to alleviate this discomfort. Has anyone encountered a similar issue or have any insight into what could be causing this?
Discomfort in the Left Temple and Forehead
I’m a 25-year-old female who does not regularly use medication. I occasionally drink and smoke. For the past three days, I’ve been experiencing intermittent pain localized to the left side of my head, particularly in the temple and the frontal region. The discomfort isn’t constant; it appears and disappears rather than lasting throughout the day. Given the symptoms, I initially suspected it might be a migraine, though I remain uncertain about the diagnosis.
Upper Chest Pain Following Car Accident
Greetings, I'm a 41-year-old male. Last week, I was involved in a vehicle collision and received medical evaluation in an ambulance right at the scene. I informed the paramedic that my chest pain was about a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10. They allowed me to return home after the examination. A few hours later, once the initial shock had faded, I noticed that the discomfort had intensified, although it was still tolerable. After some online research, I suspected that I might be dealing with a bruised rib, so I planned to just take it easy. I do have ixprim tablets at home, but they haven't provided significant relief. Now, a week has passed, and there hasn't been any improvement in my condition. I struggle with daily activities, as the pain becomes acute, almost as if my body is warning me to stop exerting myself. Since the incident, I haven't been able to walk my dogs or return to work. I don’t have any visible bruises or cuts, but I do feel discomfort in the central and left side of my upper chest. Movement in that area triggers sharp pain. Could this be indicative of a bruised rib, and is it possible that it's simply taking longer to heal than anticipated? It's Friday evening, and I’m planning to consult with a doctor on Monday if I don’t begin to see any noticeable improvement by then.