[21M] Experiencing non-severe chest pressure and pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). It causes chest pain that can be reproduced by pushing on the chest wall. Pain can be sharp or pressure-like and may get worse with deep breaths or coughing. It's often idiopathic (meaning we don't know why it happens) but can also be due to physical strain or a viral infection.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, avoiding strenuous activities that worsen your pain, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Musculoskeletal Strain: This is when muscles or tendons in the chest wall get strained, often from physical activity. The pain can be sharp or pressure-like and is usually worse with movement or certain positions.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, heat or cold therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause chest pain or discomfort.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes (like avoiding certain foods, not eating before bed) and over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should seek care from a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate.

What you can do

1. Try taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to see if they help with your pain.
2. Rest and avoid activities that seem to make your pain worse.
3. If you think your pain might be due to GERD, try avoiding foods that can trigger acid reflux (like spicy foods, citrus, chocolate) and don't eat right before bed.

What you should look out for

You should 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 with shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness or nausea
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat or pulse
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home treatment.