Chest pain or tightness
Overview
Chest pain or tightness is a uncomfortable sensation of pressure, squeezing, or sharp pain felt in the chest area. This symptom can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be accompanied by difficulty breathing or a feeling of constriction around the chest.
Common Causes
Chest pain or tightness can often result from muscle strain due to heavy lifting, poor posture, or intense physical activity. Stress and anxiety frequently cause chest tension as your body's natural response to emotional pressure. Acid reflux from spicy foods, large meals, or lying down after eating commonly creates burning sensations in the chest area. Poor sleep, excessive caffeine intake, and shallow breathing patterns can also contribute to feelings of chest discomfort.
Severity Levels
Mild: Occasional, brief episodes of chest discomfort that don't interfere with daily activities and resolve on their own within a few minutes.
Moderate: More frequent or persistent chest discomfort that may cause some concern and occasionally limits normal activities, but doesn't severely impact your ability to function.
Severe: Intense, prolonged chest pain that significantly disrupts daily life, causes severe distress, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like severe shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating.
Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or crushing chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to your arm, jaw, or back. Call emergency services right away if the pain is sudden and intense, or if you have a history of heart disease. Even mild chest discomfort that persists, worsens, or occurs with physical activity should be evaluated by a healthcare provider promptly.
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