[24F] Experiencing chest heaviness and emotional distress

Patient Description

A 24-year-old female has been experiencing a sensation of heaviness in the chest, described as pressure seemingly emanating from the heart area, for the past three days. The severity of the chest heaviness is rated as 3 out of 10. The patient also reports feeling extremely low-spirited for the past week, with a lack of energy and difficulty crying despite the urge to do so. Additionally, she has experienced shortness of breath, palpitations, and dizziness twice within the last week, but without any episodes of syncope. The patient does not report any radiation of the chest pressure to other areas. She has a history of rhinitis allergy in hot and dry weather conditions but is not on any medications currently. There are no known medication allergies and no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it's possible that you might be experiencing:

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause symptoms such as chest heaviness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. The feelings of depression, recurring negative thoughts, and lack of energy you've described could also be related to these conditions.

  • Depression: This is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You've mentioned feeling low-spirited, having recurring negative thoughts, and feeling like crying.

  • Cardiac conditions: While less likely at your age and without risk factors, symptoms such as chest heaviness, shortness of breath, and palpitations can sometimes be related to conditions such as heart disease.

What you can do

  1. Seek help from a mental health professional: Given your feelings of depression and recurring negative thoughts, it would be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide you with the necessary tools to manage your symptoms and improve your mental health.

  2. Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce feelings of anxiety and improve your mood.

  3. Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can also help improve your mood and energy levels.

  4. Consult a doctor: While it's likely that your chest heaviness is related to your feelings of depression and anxiety, it's important to rule out any potential physical causes.

What you should look out for

  • If your chest heaviness becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe shortness of breath, pain radiating to your arm or jaw, or you feel faint or actually faint, seek immediate medical attention.

  • If your feelings of depression worsen or you begin to have thoughts of harming yourself, it's important to reach out to a mental health professional immediately. You are not alone and there are people who want to help.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide you with a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder?

Common symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder include feelings of nervousness or restlessness, increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and a sense of impending doom. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration.


How can depression affect physical health?

Depression can affect physical health by causing fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, and aches or pains. It can also weaken the immune system and increase the risk of chronic illnesses.


When should I be concerned about chest heaviness?

You should be concerned about chest heaviness if it becomes severe, is accompanied by symptoms like severe shortness of breath, pain radiating to the arm or jaw, or if you feel faint or actually faint. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention.


What lifestyle changes can help improve symptoms of anxiety and depression?

Lifestyle changes that can help improve symptoms of anxiety and depression include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring adequate sleep, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, and seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals.


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