[23M] Experiencing recurrent sharp chest pains with associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 23-year-old male reports experiencing sharp, stabbing chest pains that worsen with breathing. These episodes occur every other day and last for about half an hour, with a pain severity of 7 out of 10. The patient also experiences lightheadedness, fatigue, and a sensation of the heart beating harder during these episodes. He has a history of losing consciousness for approximately 30 seconds during similar pain episodes. The patient was previously on a blood thinner, Eliquis, which he stopped taking two weeks ago. He regularly uses tobacco and has been advised to quit due to his heart and lung conditions. There is no family history of heart disease, and the patient reports no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms and medical history you've shared, there are a few serious conditions that could be contributing to your chest pain and other symptoms:

  1. Pulmonary Embolism: Given your history of blood clots in the heart and lungs, it's possible that a clot could have traveled to your lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. This can lead to sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. Pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

  2. Cardiac Issues: Your history of irregular heartbeat and ventricular tachycardia, combined with the symptoms of chest pain and feeling your heart beating harder, could indicate a cardiac event. This could include arrhythmias or other heart-related issues that need urgent evaluation.

  3. Pleurisy or Other Lung Conditions: The sharp pain that worsens with breathing could also be related to inflammation of the tissues around your lungs (pleurisy) or other lung conditions, which can be serious, especially given your history.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the seriousness of your symptoms and medical history, it's crucial to seek immediate medical care. Please go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 for assistance. Do not drive yourself; have someone else take you if possible.

  2. Avoid Tobacco: As advised by healthcare providers, quitting tobacco is important for your heart and lung health. Consider seeking support to help you quit.

  3. Follow Up on Medications: Since you were previously on a blood thinner, it's important to discuss with a healthcare provider whether you should resume this or any other medications.

  4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes or new symptoms, and share this information with healthcare providers.

Remember, while I can provide information based on your symptoms, only a healthcare professional can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Please prioritize your health and safety by seeking care immediately.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

25 d ago

People Also Ask

What are the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?

Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism can include sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, and sometimes coughing up blood. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

How can tobacco use affect heart and lung health?

Tobacco use can damage the heart and lungs, leading to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. It can also exacerbate existing heart and lung issues.

What are the risks of stopping blood thinners abruptly?

Stopping blood thinners abruptly can increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to serious conditions such as stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to medication regimens.

What is pleurisy and how is it related to chest pain?

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity. It can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing. It may be caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, or other lung-related issues.

Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback