[24F] Experiencing chest heaviness and nausea

Patient Description

A 24-year-old female presents with a constant, dull pressure in the center of her chest and nausea that began upon waking, approximately 20 minutes prior to reporting. The chest pressure is described as heavy but not painful, and the patient notes a strange sensation in her arms without pain. There is no shortness of breath, sweating, or palpitations. The patient takes Zyrtec daily, but the dosage is unknown. She reports no known allergies, adverse reactions to medications, pre-existing conditions, or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause symptoms like a heavy feeling in the chest, nausea, and a sensation of shortness of breath. They can occur suddenly and may be triggered by stress or anxiety.

    • Treatment often involves a combination of therapy and medication.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a digestive disorder that occurs when acidic stomach juices, or food and fluids back up from the stomach into the esophagus. It can cause a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the chest, often described as heartburn, as well as nausea.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter or prescription medications.
  • Heart Conditions: While less likely given your age and lack of other risk factors, symptoms such as chest pressure and nausea can be associated with conditions like angina or even a heart attack.

    • Treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity. It's important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a heart condition.

Please remember that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history more thoroughly.

What you can do

  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If your symptoms are related to anxiety, consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
  • If GERD is suspected, try avoiding trigger foods (like spicy or fatty foods), eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting, these could be signs of a serious condition like a heart attack. Seek immediate medical attention.
  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, you should also seek medical attention.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


Can anxiety cause physical symptoms like chest pressure and nausea?

Yes, anxiety can cause a range of physical symptoms, including chest pressure, nausea, and a strange sensation in the arms. These symptoms can occur suddenly and may be triggered by stress or anxiety.


What are common symptoms of GERD and how can it be managed?

Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, chest pressure, and nausea. Management typically involves lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating, along with medications like antacids or proton pump inhibitors.


Are heart conditions common in young adults and what symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention?

Heart conditions are less common in young adults, but they can occur. Symptoms like severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting should prompt immediate medical attention as they could indicate a serious condition like a heart attack.


How can I differentiate between heartburn and a heart-related issue?

Heartburn typically causes a burning sensation in the chest and is often related to eating. Heart-related issues may present with more severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or radiating pain to the arms or jaw. If in doubt, seek medical attention to rule out serious conditions.


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