[34F] Experiencing chest pressure and visual disturbances

Patient Description

A 34-year-old female reports a sensation of pressure in the chest, described as non-painful but similar to a balloon inflating, noticeable when standing up quickly and while standing or lying down. This sensation has been present intermittently for a few days. Deep breaths provide slight temporary relief. The patient also experiences headaches with pressure around the eyes and sides of the head, rating the current headache severity at 4 out of 10. These headaches, which have been occurring on and off for months, are accompanied by difficulty focusing the eyes, particularly in the right eye, and are worse in the evenings. Blurred vision is a known symptom for the patient, typically associated with migraines or upon waking. Additionally, the patient has shortness of breath and palpitations but no weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or leg swelling. Medical history includes diabetes, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and asthma. The patient is taking Busbirone, Ativan, Trazadone, and Lexapro, with no known drug allergies and no side effects from current medications. There is a family history of heart attacks. The patient has not been evaluated for heart disease.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: You have a history of anxiety and panic disorder, and some of your symptoms, such as chest pressure, palpitations, and shortness of breath, can be associated with these conditions.

    • Treatment usually involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Migraines: You've mentioned having a history of migraines, and your description of headaches and vision problems could be consistent with migraines.

    • Treatment can involve both preventive measures and medications to alleviate symptoms when they occur.
  • Cardiovascular disease: Given your family history of heart disease and your symptoms of chest pressure and shortness of breath, it's important to rule out conditions like heart disease or heart failure.

    • Treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity, but can include lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Asthma: You've mentioned having a history of asthma, and some of your symptoms, such as chest pressure and shortness of breath, can be associated with this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves the use of inhalers to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.

Please remember that this is not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform some tests or refer you to a specialist.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they happen, and anything that makes them better or worse. This can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.
  3. Continue taking your medications as prescribed, and discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider.
  4. Practice good self-care. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring you get enough sleep, and managing stress.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body
  • Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


Can anxiety or panic disorder cause chest pressure and palpitations?

Yes, anxiety and panic disorders can cause physical symptoms such as chest pressure, palpitations, and shortness of breath. These symptoms occur due to the body's 'fight or flight' response, which can be triggered by anxiety.


What are common symptoms of migraines and how can they affect vision?

Migraines can cause a variety of symptoms, including severe headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and visual disturbances such as blurred vision or seeing auras. These symptoms can affect daily activities and may require specific treatments to manage.


How can family history of heart disease impact my health, and what should I do about it?

A family history of heart disease can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular conditions. It's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who may recommend lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, or specific tests to assess your heart health.


What are the typical symptoms of asthma and how can they be managed?

Asthma symptoms typically include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Management often involves using inhalers to control symptoms and prevent attacks, as well as avoiding triggers and following a treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider.


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