[26F] Pregnant with chest and neurological symptoms

Patient Description

A 26-year-old female, currently 32 weeks pregnant, reports experiencing a burning sensation in the chest and a sharp, prickling sensation that spreads from the back of the head to the shoulders and spine. These symptoms occur simultaneously and have been noted during the current pregnancy. The patient has a history of one previous pregnancy, which also had complications, and currently has one living child. Further medical history, the timeline of symptom development, and any additional symptoms have not been provided.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Heartburn or Acid Reflux: Pregnancy often leads to heartburn or acid reflux, which can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This is due to hormonal changes and the growing baby pushing on your stomach.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and not lying down soon after eating. Over-the-counter antacids may also be helpful, but you should consult your doctor before starting any new medication during pregnancy.
  • Anxiety or Stress: Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and stress can cause physical symptoms like the prickling sensation you're describing. This is often due to muscle tension.

    • Treatment for stress and anxiety often involves relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. If your anxiety is severe, you may want to talk to your doctor about counseling or medication.
  • Preeclampsia: This is a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. The prickling sensation could be related to high blood pressure, and the burning sensation in your chest could be related to liver or kidney damage.

    • Treatment involves close monitoring by your doctor and often medication to lower your blood pressure. If preeclampsia is severe, early delivery of the baby may be necessary.

What you can do

You should definitely consult your doctor about your symptoms as soon as possible. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

  1. For heartburn, try eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and not lying down soon after eating.
  2. For stress, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
  3. Monitor your blood pressure if you have a home blood pressure monitor. High blood pressure is a sign of preeclampsia.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek urgent medical attention:

  • Severe headache
  • Changes in vision, like blurriness
  • Upper abdominal pain, usually under your ribs on the right side
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Decreased urine output
  • Sudden weight gain, typically more than 2 pounds (0.9 kilogram) a week

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Acid Reflux (GERD): American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What causes heartburn during pregnancy and how can it be managed?

Heartburn during pregnancy is often caused by hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing on the stomach, leading to acid reflux. It can be managed by eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and not lying down soon after eating. Over-the-counter antacids may help, but consult a doctor before using them.


How can stress and anxiety affect physical sensations during pregnancy?

Stress and anxiety during pregnancy can lead to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, which may cause sensations like prickling or tingling. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help alleviate these symptoms.


What are the symptoms and risks associated with preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage, often affecting the liver and kidneys. Symptoms include severe headaches, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea, and sudden weight gain. It requires close monitoring and may necessitate early delivery if severe.


When should a pregnant woman seek urgent medical attention for her symptoms?

A pregnant woman should seek urgent medical attention if she experiences severe headaches, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea, decreased urine output, or sudden significant weight gain, as these could indicate serious conditions like preeclampsia.


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