Seeking Urgent Assistance
At 16 years old, I am also living with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). I’m not sure if this qualifies as a question, but I am experiencing intense tightness in my chest, as if someone is applying pressure on me. The discomfort is excruciating, and it feels like I’m struggling to breathe. Additionally, I have significant pain in my neck and shoulder. My teacher noticed something was wrong and was inclined to call an ambulance; however, I declined that option. I confided in my mother about my situation, but she suggested that it might just be a cold and advised me to rest. She isn’t very knowledgeable about POTS either, which only adds to my frustration because she believes that whatever she can manage, I should be able to handle as well. I’m in severe distress and can’t stop crying. Despite my pleas to go to the hospital, she refuses to take me. This has left me feeling extremely anxious. Although I have had chest pain before, it has never felt this intense. Typically, my discomfort comes and goes, manifesting as an aching or sharp sensation, but this episode is entirely unlike anything I have experienced. This pain has persisted for several hours and seems to be intensifying. Even when I try to lie down, there’s no relief from the agony.
Answers (1)
9/8/2025, 7:20:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It sounds like you're experiencing very distressing symptoms, particularly with your chest tightness and pain, which is understandable to be frightening. Chest pain, especially when it's intense and associated with difficulty breathing, can be serious, and it's important to get appropriate medical help.
Immediate Actions:
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Seek Emergency Care: Given the severity of your symptoms (intense chest tightness, breathing difficulties, and pain radiating to your neck and shoulder), it's critical to seek emergency medical care immediately. If your mother is not supportive of this, please consider calling a trusted friend or family member, or even a neighbor, to help you get to the hospital or call for an ambulance yourself. It’s essential to ensure your safety and well-being.
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Stay Calm: While waiting for help, try to reduce anxiety by taking slow, deep breaths. Focus on breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. This can help with both panic and potentially with the feelings of tightness.
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Positioning for Comfort: If you feel safe and able to, try sitting upright in a comfortable position, as this can sometimes ease pressure on the chest and help with breathing. Avoid lying flat if that increases your discomfort.
Explanation of Symptoms:
The combination of chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and pain can arise from various causes, including but not limited to POTS-related symptoms, stress or anxiety, muscular issues, or more serious conditions such as heart issues. It's essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Next Steps:
- Do not ignore these symptoms, especially since they are new and significantly more intense than what you've experienced before.
- Once you've received medical care, consider discussing your situation with your healthcare provider regarding your POTS management and any concerns you have about explaining your symptoms to your family. Having a clear plan can help them understand your needs better.
Please prioritize your health and safety. You deserve immediate attention and support.
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