[44F] With acute right breast pain and chest tightness

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female presents with sudden onset sharp pain in the right breast, rated 9 out of 10 in severity. The pain worsens with breathing and swallowing and is accompanied by chest tightness. There is no radiation of pain to the arm, neck, or jaw, and no associated nausea or sweating. The patient has a history of high blood pressure and missed a morning dose of her medication. No recent injuries or strains to the chest area are reported. No other symptoms are present.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

The sharp pain in your right breast, especially with chest tightness and worsening on breathing and swallowing, could be concerning for several reasons:

  1. Cardiac Issues: Given your history of high blood pressure and the sudden onset of pain, it's important to consider a cardiac cause. While the pain isn't radiating, heart-related issues can present atypically, especially in women.

  2. Pulmonary Concerns: Conditions like a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung) can cause sharp chest pain and tightness, especially if it worsens with breathing.

  3. Musculoskeletal Strain: Although less likely given the severity, muscle strain or inflammation can cause sharp pain, but typically not with chest tightness.

It's crucial to seek immediate medical attention to rule out serious conditions like a heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

What you can do

  • Seek Immediate Care: Please go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately. It's important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

  • Avoid Physical Exertion: Until you receive medical attention, try to rest and avoid any physical activity that could worsen your symptoms.

  • Medication: If you have any prescribed medication for high blood pressure, take it as directed, but do not take any new medication without consulting a healthcare provider.

Remember, it's always better to be cautious with symptoms like these. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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2 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the possible causes of sharp breast pain that worsens with breathing?

Sharp breast pain that worsens with breathing can be caused by several conditions, including cardiac issues, pulmonary problems like a pulmonary embolism, or musculoskeletal strain. It's important to get evaluated to determine the exact cause.


How can high blood pressure contribute to chest pain?

High blood pressure can lead to cardiac issues, which may present as chest pain. It can increase the risk of heart disease, which might cause atypical chest pain, especially in women.


What are the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?

Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include sudden sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and sometimes coughing up blood. The pain often worsens with deep breathing.


Why is it important to seek immediate medical attention for chest pain?

Immediate medical attention for chest pain is crucial because it could be a sign of serious conditions like a heart attack or pulmonary embolism, which require prompt treatment to prevent complications.


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