[19F] Experiencing chest pain, dizziness, and migraines

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female has been experiencing a dull, aching chest pain rated 8/10 in severity, located centrally and deeper within the chest. The pain has been present for a year and is exacerbated by repeated arm and hand movements and sexual activity, but it is alleviated by sitting. Alongside chest pain, the patient suffers from migraines characterized by dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound, and pain in the temples and behind the eyes. These migraines have been occurring for two years, with a frequency of once or twice a week and a severity rated at 7/10. The patient also reports vertigo and a fluttering sensation in the chest, as well as shortness of breath, but no radiating pain to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw, and no nausea or vomiting. Abdominal pains have also been mentioned, but no further details were provided.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. However, they are usually associated with periods of intense fear or discomfort, and it's important to rule out other causes before attributing these symptoms to anxiety.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (talking therapy), medication, or a combination of both.
  • Migraines: Migraines can cause severe headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, and dizziness. However, they wouldn't typically cause chest pain.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to stop symptoms and prevent future attacks.
  • Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage in your rib cage. It can cause chest pain, especially with movement or deep breathing. However, it wouldn't typically cause dizziness or migraines.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and physical therapy.
  • Cardiac conditions: While less common in young people, conditions such as pericarditis (inflammation of the tissues around the heart) or arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) can cause chest pain and dizziness. These are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

    • Treatment typically involves medication, procedures, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to rest and avoid any activities that make your symptoms worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
  • Chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
  • A sudden severe headache, especially if it's accompanied by a stiff neck, fever, or confusion

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of costochondritis and how is it treated?

Costochondritis is characterized by pain in the chest, particularly when moving or taking deep breaths. It is often treated with pain relievers and physical therapy to reduce inflammation and manage pain.


How can anxiety or panic disorders cause physical symptoms like chest pain and dizziness?

Anxiety or panic disorders can lead to physical symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath due to the body's 'fight or flight' response. This response can cause increased heart rate and muscle tension. Treatment often includes psychotherapy and medication.


What are the typical symptoms of migraines and how can they be managed?

Migraines typically present with severe headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes dizziness. Management includes medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.


When should someone seek immediate medical attention for chest pain?

Immediate medical attention for chest pain is necessary if the pain is severe, spreads to the jaw, left arm, or back, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea, as these could be signs of a serious condition like a heart attack.


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