[25F] Experiencing chest pain with associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 25-year-old female presents with a 5-6 hour history of persistent, pressure-like chest pain radiating to the back. Accompanying symptoms include nausea, dizziness, blurry vision, and back pain. The blurry vision is described as off and on throughout the day and out of focus. The patient also reports stomach bloating but no vomiting. She has a history of anxiety, depression, and vasovagal syncope, for which she has been taking 40 mg of Prozac for 2-3 years, with hand tremors as a noted side effect. There is no known family history of cardiac disease, and the patient denies recent use of tobacco, cocaine, or other stimulants. No known drug allergies have been reported, and no other medications are being taken.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are several possible causes for your symptoms:

  • Anxiety: Your history of anxiety and depression, combined with your symptoms of chest pain, nausea, and blurry vision, could suggest that you're experiencing a severe anxiety or panic attack. These can cause physical symptoms that mimic those of more serious conditions, like heart disease.

    • Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which you're already taking in the form of Prozac.
  • Vasovagal syncope: This is a condition that leads to fainting in some people, and is due to a drop in heart rate and blood pressure. It can cause symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and blurry vision, but it's less likely to cause chest pain.

    • Treatment often involves learning to recognize the warning signs of an impending fainting spell and taking action to prevent it, such as lying down and elevating your legs.
  • Heart conditions: While less common in young, healthy individuals, conditions like angina or a heart attack can cause chest pain, nausea, and other symptoms. Given your age and sex, this is less likely, but it's important to rule out.

    • Treatment typically involves medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis can cause chest pain and nausea. Your mention of stomach bloating could also point towards a gastrointestinal issue.

    • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, medications to reduce stomach acid, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your chest pain, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Chest pain can be a sign of a serious condition, like a heart attack, even though this is less likely given your age and sex.

In the meantime, try to stay calm and avoid any strenuous activity. If you have aspirin at home and you're not allergic to it, you could consider taking a dose while you wait for medical help.

What you should look out for

If your chest pain becomes severe, or if you start to experience additional symptoms like difficulty breathing, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can anxiety cause physical symptoms like chest pain and nausea?

Yes, anxiety can cause a range of physical symptoms, including chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and blurry vision. These symptoms can mimic those of more serious conditions, so it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.


What is vasovagal syncope and how can it affect me?

Vasovagal syncope is a condition that can lead to fainting due to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. It can cause symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and blurry vision. Recognizing the warning signs and taking preventive actions, such as lying down and elevating your legs, can help manage it.


Are heart conditions common in young women, and what symptoms should I watch for?

Heart conditions are less common in young women, but they can still occur. Symptoms to watch for include severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, and severe dizziness. It's important to seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.


Could gastrointestinal issues be causing my chest pain and nausea?

Yes, gastrointestinal issues like GERD or gastritis can cause chest pain and nausea. Stomach bloating can also be a sign of a gastrointestinal problem. Treatment often involves dietary changes and medications to reduce stomach acid.


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