[22F] Experiencing chest tightness, shortness of breath, and swollen throat

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

• Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause physical symptoms like chest tightness, shortness of breath, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. Anxiety can also cause stomach discomfort and tingling in the face or other parts of the body.

  • Treatment often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and sometimes medication.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs 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 discomfort.

  • Treatment often involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In severe cases, prescription medications or surgery might be necessary.

• Heart conditions: Although less likely given your age and gender, heart conditions can cause chest tightness and shortness of breath. Conditions like angina or even a heart attack could present with these symptoms.

  • Treatment depends on the specific heart condition, but it's important to seek immediate medical attention if a heart condition is suspected.

What you can do

1. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, seek immediate medical attention. Chest pain and shortness of breath can be signs of serious conditions.
2. Try to relax and take slow, deep breaths. If your symptoms are due to anxiety, this may help.
3. Avoid triggers that may worsen your GERD symptoms, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
4. Over-the-counter antacids may help with your GERD symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your chest pain is severe, especially if you also have pain in your arm or jaw, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness or fainting.
• You have severe difficulty breathing.
• You cough up blood.
• You feel like your throat is closing up or you're choking.
• You have a high fever, confusion, or a stiff neck.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.