[21F] With sudden sharp chest pain and dizziness

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you’ve described—sharp chest pain in the front and back of your chest that worsens with breathing and pressing on the area, occasional heat flashes, and dizziness—here are some possible explanations:

1. Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone. It can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or when pressure is applied to the chest. This condition is often triggered by physical activity or strain, which aligns with the onset of your symptoms after sex.

   • Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, and avoiding activities that worsen the pain.

2. Muscle Strain: The physical activity could have strained the muscles in your chest or back, leading to sharp pain that worsens with movement or pressure. This is a common and non-serious cause of chest pain.

   • Treatment includes rest, applying heat or ice to the affected area, and taking pain relievers as needed.

3. Pleurisy: This is inflammation of the lining around your lungs, which can cause sharp pain that worsens with breathing. While less likely given your lack of recent respiratory infections, it’s still a possibility.

   • Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve anti-inflammatory medications.

4. Anxiety or Panic Attack: Sometimes, physical activity or emotional stress can trigger chest pain, dizziness, and heat flashes. If you’ve experienced stress or anxiety recently, this could be a contributing factor.

   • Treatment involves stress management techniques, relaxation exercises, and sometimes therapy or medication.

While these are the most likely explanations, it’s important to rule out more serious conditions, such as heart or lung issues, especially given the severity of your pain (8 out of 10).

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms and prepare for a medical evaluation:

1. Rest and Avoid Strain: Avoid activities that worsen your pain, and give your body time to recover.
2. Apply Heat or Ice: Use a heating pad or ice pack on the painful area to help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
3. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Track Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, including when the pain started, what makes it worse, and any other symptoms you notice. This information will be helpful for your doctor.
5. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Dizziness and heat flashes can sometimes be worsened by dehydration or fatigue, so ensure you’re drinking enough water and getting adequate rest.

What you should look out for

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

• Worsening Chest Pain: If the pain becomes more severe or spreads to other areas, such as your arm, neck, or jaw.
• Shortness of Breath: If you start feeling like you can’t catch your breath.
• Fainting or Severe Dizziness: If you feel like you’re going to pass out.
• Fever or Chills: These could indicate an infection or inflammation.
• New or Worsening Symptoms: Any other concerning changes, such as a rapid heartbeat or swelling in your legs.

Because your chest pain is severe and worsens with breathing, I recommend seeing a healthcare provider as soon as possible to rule out serious conditions and get appropriate treatment. If your symptoms worsen or you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to go to the emergency room.