[26M] Experiencing chest tightness and palpitations

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Panic Disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that may include palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, numbness, or a feeling that something terrible is going to happen. The maximum degree of symptoms occurs within minutes. There may be ongoing worries about having further attacks and avoidance of places where attacks have occurred in the past.

  • Treatment typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.

• Cardiac Conditions: Given your history of a heart murmur and family history of atrial fibrillation, it's important to consider cardiac conditions. These could include angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle) or arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms). However, these conditions often present with additional symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, and radiating pain which you have not reported.

  • Treatment depends on the specific condition and can range from lifestyle changes and medication to surgery.

• 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. GERD affects people of all ages and often feels like a burning chest pain that starts behind the breastbone and moves upward to the neck and throat. Many people say it feels like food is coming back into the mouth leaving an acid or bitter taste.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medication.

What you can do

1. Consult a healthcare professional: Given your symptoms and medical history, it's important to seek medical attention. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.
2. Monitor your symptoms: Keep a record of when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
3. Practice stress management: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga may help to manage your symptoms if they are related to anxiety or panic disorder.
4. Lifestyle changes: If your symptoms are related to GERD, changes such as avoiding spicy and fatty foods, not eating close to bedtime, and elevating the head of your bed may help.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe chest pain or pressure, especially if it radiates to your arm, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• A rapid or irregular heartbeat

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.