[41F] Experiencing chest burning, shortness of breath, and cough

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, possible conditions include:

• 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 is often caused by a lifestyle factors, such as obesity, smoking, and low physical activity.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications or surgery might be needed in severe cases.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Gastritis can be caused by irritation due to excessive alcohol use, chronic vomiting, stress, or the use of certain medications such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • Treatment involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, avoiding hot and spicy foods, and stress management.

• Chest wall pain: This is a type of musculoskeletal chest pain. It can be caused by straining the muscles or ligaments between the ribs, or it could be due to inflammation of the cartilage that links the ribs to the breastbone (costochondritis).

  • Treatment typically involves rest, avoiding activities that make your pain worse, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Anxiety: Sometimes, anxiety can cause physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.

  • Treatment involves psychological counseling (psychotherapy), medications, or both.

What you can do

1. Try to avoid foods and beverages that trigger your heartburn. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Try to maintain a healthy weight. Excess pounds put pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your esophagus.
3. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
4. Elevate the head of your bed. If you regularly experience heartburn while trying to sleep, put gravity to work for you. Place wood or cement blocks under the feet of your bed so that the head end is raised by 6 to 9 inches.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical care if you:

• Have chest pain that is severe and lasts for more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. This could be a sign of a heart attack.
• Have shortness of breath, sweating, or lightheadedness along with chest pain or discomfort. This could also be a sign of a heart attack.
• Have difficulty swallowing.
• Have persistent vomiting or vomiting blood — this may appear red or black.
• Notice blood in your stools or your stools appear black or tarry.

Please 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 accurate information.