Heaviness in chest

In this segment, we will be observing a number of different health conditions that can lead to the symptoms of heaviness in the chest. It is important to understand the condition before a plan of treatment is determined. In accordance, some possible treatments will be discussed as well.

Heart attack- this condition is by far the most serious health condition concerning chest heaviness. The unpleasant pressure starts at the center of the chest, radiates outward, to the shoulders, arms, neck, and sometimes up into the jaw. Some other symptoms that may be present during a heart attack may include fatigue, nausea, profuse sweating, hyperventilating, dizziness, and sometimes vomiting. When this occurs, get immediate emergency help.

Angina- this is when an inadequate quantity of blood reaches the heart, causing tightness in the chest. Angina often is a precursor to a serious heart condition. This can occur when fatty deposits build up in the veins, restricting the blood flow. This condition can have serious consequences and one should seek immediate medical treatment. Treatment for this condition usually includes a high fiber, low fat diet to decrease the cholesterol in the body.

Digestive Disorders - the occasional heaviness in the chest can also be a result of indigestion, but tends to panic many people, because of the similarity in symptoms that may indicate a heart attack. It is important to note that the symptoms of indigestion are characterized by the sensation of something lodged in the chest, and usually happens after eating a big meal.

In sleep Disorders -, this can also cause chest heaviness while asleep. Two well-known disorders are sleep apnea and sleep paralysis. When sleep paralysis occurs, the individual may find they are waking up during the night with a sense of unease. This usually is combined with a feeling of anxiety and the whole body may be paralyzed for a short period. This is not a serious health concern, nor does it need medicine. Sleep apnea is a condition in which the person stops breathing for a short time while they are asleep, from an obstructed nasal passage. The person may wake suddenly and feel short of breath. It is generally thought to be brought on by obesity or blockage in the nasal passages.

Panic attack - this disorder usually presents symptoms of excessive sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, tenseness in the chest and throat and more. Panic attacks usually occur when the individual is under stress, and the chest muscles sustain pressure-causing tightness that mimics a heat attack. In all actuality, the symptoms displayed in a heart attack are nearly identical to a panic attack. The main difference between the two, it that the panic attack victim does not feel the radiating pain that a heart attack victim has. Also, the warning signs of a heart attack come on suddenly and continue to increase, as opposed to the indications of a panic attack that lessen after a while. Management of this condition is usually taken care of with therapy and different oral medicines.


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