[34F] Experiencing chest pain, itchy throat, nausea, and fever

What might be happening

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

• Pleurisy: This is inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity. It can cause chest pain that worsens when you breathe, cough, or sneeze. The fact that your pain is worse with deep breaths and certain movements could suggest this.

  • Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause and may include anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers.

• Pericarditis: This is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac-like covering around the heart. It can cause chest pain that often worsens when lying down or inhaling deeply. Given your description of the chest pain and its relation to your breathing and body position, this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

• Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum), an area known as the costosternal joint. Your chest pain could potentially be due to this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause chest pain.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.

• Anxiety: Sometimes, anxiety and stress can manifest as physical symptoms, including chest pain. Given your history of POTS, which can sometimes be associated with anxiety, this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment usually involves psychological therapy, medication, and self-care practices.

Please note that chest pain can sometimes be a sign of serious conditions like heart disease, so it's important to get it checked out by a healthcare professional.

What you can do

1. Seek immediate medical attention: Chest pain can be a sign of serious heart conditions, so it's important to get it checked out by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

2. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of when your chest pain occurs, what it feels like, and what you're doing when it happens. This can help your healthcare provider diagnose your condition.

3. Manage your stress: If your chest pain is related to stress or anxiety, finding ways to manage your stress can help. This might include relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.

4. Follow a heart-healthy lifestyle: If your chest pain is heart-related, following a heart-healthy lifestyle can help. This includes eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains; getting regular exercise; avoiding smoking; and managing stress.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your chest pain is severe, especially if it's a new symptom.
• Your chest pain is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to your jaw, neck, or arm.
• Your chest pain doesn't improve or worsens.

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.