[20F] Experiencing chest pain and difficulty breathing

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

• Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). It causes chest pain that can be triggered by coughing or taking a deep breath. Although it's often harmless and usually goes away on its own, it can be worrying because the pain can be intense.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If these aren't effective, your doctor might suggest physical therapy or, rarely, surgery.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). It can cause a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night. Chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and a feeling of a lump in your throat are other symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these aren't effective, your doctor might suggest prescription-strength medications or surgery.

• Anxiety: Sometimes, anxiety and stress can manifest as physical symptoms, including chest pain. Other symptoms can include rapid breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, dizziness, and stomach upset.

  • Treatment typically involves psychological therapy, medication, and self-care strategies.

• Precordial Catch Syndrome (PCS): This is a benign and very common condition in children and young adults that manifests as sharp, intense pain in the chest. It usually lasts for a few minutes and then disappears abruptly.

  • Treatment is typically not necessary for PCS as it goes away on its own.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medicines like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
2. Heat or cold: Applying a hot or cold pack to the affected area of your chest can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
3. Rest: Avoid physical activity that worsens your chest pain.
4. Deep breathing and relaxation exercises: These can help reduce symptoms if your chest pain is caused by anxiety.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If your chest pain becomes severe or doesn't improve after rest and taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
• If you experience other symptoms such as trouble breathing, pain spreading to the arm, nausea, sweating, dizziness, or a fast or irregular heartbeat. These could be signs of a heart attack, which requires immediate medical attention.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.