I feel heaviness in the chest with suffocation, tightness in the chest and throat due to which i get mild throat pain as well . In the morning I don't get any symptoms I feel fresh but this starts only in the evenings and after I try to lay down on the bed in the afternoon. I did PFT, CHEST PA XRAY as well as ECG but all the reports are normal. After the normal reports my doctor says it may be because of anxiety and prescribed me a tablet for anxiety but it gave temporary relief in the evening I m experiencing the same symptoms . I need proper advice, medicine and treatment.
Answers (21)
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Hello
Sir / Madam,
I got your health concern , it can be treated with further evaluation, medical counselling, and proper treatment.
Pls do contact .
Dr Hemanth.
MBBS, MEM, FISR .
chest heaviness and suffocation can be signs of something serious, including:
1. Heart-related issues like angina or a heart attack.
2. Anxiety or panic attack, which can mimic heart symptoms.
3. Respiratory conditions like asthma, a pulmonary embolism, or even a chest infection.
4. Acid reflux/GERD, which can cause chest tightness and discomfort.
5. Muscle strain or injury, if you've lifted something heavy or overexerted.
Need to ask you more Question to help you better and provide solution/ treatment for your problem. Whatapp 97166*33*129 or here on practo
Thank you for your detailed history. The symptoms you're experiencingâheaviness in the chest, suffocation, tightness in the chest and throat, and mild throat pain, especially worsening in the evening or while lying down, despite normal ECG, chest X-ray, and PFTâdo strongly point towards a non-cardiac cause, most likely a combination of GERD (acid reflux) and anxiety.
Hereâs what could be contributing:
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease):
Lying down after meals can cause acid to move upward, leading to chest tightness, throat irritation, and a suffocating feeling.
Anxiety or Panic Spectrum:
Anxiety can amplify these symptoms and cause chest/throat tightness, especially in the evenings when the body is at rest.
Recommended Course of Action:
Lifestyle Changes:
Avoid lying down for at least 2â3 hours after meals
Elevate the head of your bed slightly
Avoid spicy, oily, and caffeinated foods in the evening
Medicines (under medical supervision):
Pantoprazole 40 mg once daily before breakfast (for acid control)
Levosulpiride + Pantoprazole combo if bloating is present
Mild anxiolytics like Etizolam or Clonazepam only if anxiety is confirmed, and under prescription
Throat lozenges or warm saline gargles for throat relief
Next Step:
If symptoms persist, consider a gastroenterologist consultation for an upper GI endoscopy
A clinical psychologist or psychiatrist can help address underlying anxiety with safer, longer-acting medications and therapy
You are not aloneâmany people experience such overlapping symptoms. With the right combined approach, this can be managed effectively.
For consultation, connect with me on Practo for video consultations. For WhatsApp queries only: Eight Seven Six Two Seven Four Nine Nine Seven Four
Need more information regarding severity of breathlessness, is it relieved after sitting up, is there associated palpitations?
Do you smoke and or drink?
One time normal ECG does not exclude a cardiac problem.
Next Steps
Get cardiac echo and treadmill test done to exclude ischemic heart disease.
Dear Patient,
I understand your concern regarding the persistent heaviness, suffocation, and tightness in your chest and throat, especially in the evenings and while lying down. Since your PFT, chest X-ray, and ECG are normal, it rules out major cardiac or pulmonary conditions. However, your symptoms could be due to:
1. GERD/Acid Reflux: Lying down can worsen acid reflux, causing throat tightness and chest discomfort.
2. Anxiety/Stress: While your doctor has already considered this, unresolved anxiety or panic disorders can manifest physically.
3. Musculoskeletal Strain: Tension in chest muscles or costochondritis (inflammation of rib cartilage) can mimic these symptoms.
4. Allergies or Mild Asthma: Sometimes, atypical asthma or allergies trigger evening symptoms.
Recommendations:
- Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) Trial**: If GERD is suspected, a 2-week course of PPIs (like Pantoprazole) may help.
- Breathing Exercises: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress-related symptoms.
- Postural Adjustments: Avoid lying down immediately after meals; elevate your head while sleeping.
- Re-evaluation: If symptoms persist, a Holter monitor (for heart rhythm) or esophageal pH monitoring (for reflux) may be needed.
Since your current treatment provided only temporary relief, a detailed evaluation is essential. For a personalized treatment plan, you can reach me on WhatsApp at **Eight Zero Zero Nine Eight Two One Three Three Two** to schedule a consultation
Hello ,
Need more information regarding chest pain and associated symptoms and the duration since it has started
Its better to rule out any cardiac event with further cardiac evaluation .
If you require assistance or have any health concerns, feel free to reach out for a consultation. Your well-being is my priority, and i'm here to support you on your health journey.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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