HomeAnswersNeurologychest painI have distressing nerve pain and muscle tightness in the chest area. Can you please help?

What is the reason for radiating pain in the chest area?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At April 29, 2022
Reviewed AtAugust 30, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

The current symptoms consist of distressing nerve pain and muscle tightness. The pain feels "nervy" and ranges from sharp to dull ache. It is present below my sternum and branches to both left and right sides of my chest, though it is much worse on the left, in the area surrounding my heart. It proceeds down from my sternum to the solar plexus, middle of my abdomen, and ends at the bottom, a few inches below my navel. It also wraps around my ribcage on either side and into my back, especially below the shoulder blades. The muscle tightness affects the entire torso, though the worst areas are the intercostal muscles in the front, sides, and back of my ribs and the front of my abdomen, including what feels like my diaphragm. This can cause my breathing to be difficult, and I often feel like I am not getting enough air. There has been no recent injury, and I was diagnosed with medication-related akathisia four months ago. Currently, I am taking Neurontin, Clonazepam, Propranolol, Benadryl (all for akathisia symptoms).

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. The symptoms may well be neurogenic (nerve origin) as it radiates down the chest and involves the abdomen. Also, gastroesophageal (stomach and food pipe) causes may be ruled out by appropriate investigations (upper gastrointestinal endoscopy). The stress levels, if high, also need to be controlled as the condition may worsen with stress. Relation to diet should also be sought in detail. Esophageal spasm remains a possibility in this case. The case needs thorough investigational work up for proper diagnosis. Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Abhishek Juneja
Dr. Abhishek Juneja

Neurology

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