[21F] With severe shortness of breath and chest pain

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female presents with severe shortness of breath that began suddenly a few hours ago and worsens with movement. She reports a sharp, stabbing chest pain on the left side, rated 7 out of 10 in severity, which started about an hour ago. Additionally, she experiences dizziness, nausea, and a sharp pain in the left shoulder, rated 8 out of 10, making it difficult to move the arm. Her face feels like it's burning, although it is not warm to the touch, and this sensation has been constant for about three hours. Her hands and feet feel cold. There is no history of recent injuries, new medications, or substance use. She has a family history of heart disease and stroke, with her father having had a heart attack and her grandfather multiple strokes. No known allergies or past medical history.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, there are a few serious conditions that could be occurring:

  1. Heart Attack: Your symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and shoulder pain, could indicate a heart attack. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Typical treatments include medications to dissolve clots and procedures to restore blood flow.

  2. Stroke: The sudden onset of symptoms like facial burning and one-sided body pain could suggest a stroke. Immediate medical evaluation is crucial to prevent long-term damage. Treatment often involves medications to break up clots or surgery.

  3. Pulmonary Embolism: This condition involves a blockage in the lungs and can cause sudden shortness of breath and chest pain. It requires urgent medical care, often involving blood thinners or surgery.

What you can do

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Please go to the emergency room or call 911 right away. These symptoms are potentially life-threatening and need urgent evaluation by healthcare professionals.

  • Do Not Drive Yourself: If possible, have someone else drive you to the hospital or call for an ambulance.

  • Stay Calm and Rest: While waiting for help, try to stay calm and avoid any physical exertion.

Remember, it's important to get professional medical help as soon as possible.

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3 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a heart attack in young women?

Common symptoms of a heart attack in young women can include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, pain in the neck, back, or jaw, nausea, lightheadedness, and fatigue. Women may experience symptoms differently than men, often with more subtle signs.


How can you differentiate between a heart attack and a panic attack?

A heart attack typically involves chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, and pain radiating to other areas like the arm or jaw. A panic attack can mimic these symptoms but often includes intense fear, a sense of impending doom, and symptoms like rapid heartbeat and sweating. Medical evaluation is necessary to differentiate between the two.


What are the warning signs of a stroke, and why is it important to act quickly?

Warning signs of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, dizziness, and severe headache. Acting quickly is crucial because early treatment can reduce brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.


What is a pulmonary embolism, and what are its symptoms?

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, usually caused by blood clots that travel from the legs. Symptoms include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that may become worse with deep breathing, coughing, and a rapid heart rate. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.


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