[25M] Experiencing severe chest pain and shortness of breath

Patient Description

A 25-year-old male has been experiencing severe chest pain described as a heavy, burning, or dull sensation, radiating to the neck and shoulder, and causing numbness. This pain has been present for 3-4 days, with today being the worst, and is rated 9 out of 10 in severity. All activities seem to worsen the pain, and no alleviating factors have been found. Additionally, the patient reports a severe shortness of breath, rated 10 out of 10, which feels like an inability to breathe properly. This symptom is new and has not been experienced before. Accompanying symptoms include slight dizziness, nausea, and pain radiating from the chest to the arm and jaw. The patient has a history of an enlarged heart diagnosed in childhood but is not currently on any medications and has no known allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Given your symptoms of severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and pain radiating to your neck, shoulder, and jaw, this is a serious possibility that needs immediate medical attention. The fact that you have an enlarged heart, which can increase the risk of heart disease, further supports this possibility.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to break up clots and restore blood flow, as well as lifestyle changes and possibly surgery.
  • Angina: This is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles. It's not a disease but a symptom of an underlying heart problem, usually coronary heart disease. Angina can feel like a heart attack, with severe chest pain and shortness of breath.

    • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes, surgery.
  • Panic Attack: This is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and feelings of impending doom.

    • Treatment usually involves psychotherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity and nature of your symptoms, it's crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the emergency department right away or call an ambulance.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical help if:

  • Your chest pain or shortness of breath worsens
  • You experience fainting or severe dizziness
  • You have a rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • You have persistent or worsening nausea or vomiting

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Please seek immediate medical attention.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a heart attack?

Common symptoms of a heart attack include severe chest pain or discomfort, pain radiating to the neck, shoulder, arm, or jaw, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and a feeling of impending doom. Immediate medical attention is crucial.


How is angina different from a heart attack?

Angina is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles and is a symptom of an underlying heart problem, often coronary heart disease. It can feel similar to a heart attack but is usually less severe and doesn't cause permanent heart damage. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, causing heart muscle damage.


Can an enlarged heart increase the risk of heart problems?

Yes, an enlarged heart, or cardiomegaly, can increase the risk of heart problems. It can lead to complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and increased risk of heart attack, especially if not monitored and managed properly.


What should I do if I experience severe chest pain and shortness of breath?

If you experience severe chest pain and shortness of breath, you should seek immediate medical attention by going to the emergency department or calling an ambulance. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition like a heart attack that requires urgent care.


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1 Comments


Billy#3955

8 mo ago

Please go to the emergency room if you haven't already! Even though you are young, these are extremely concerning symptoms!!

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