HomeAnswersCardiologychest heavinessCan tightness of the chest be the start of a heart attack?

I have tightness in chest. Is it start of a heart attack?

Share

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

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At January 8, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 5, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am suffering with cold and cough. A week before I had cold, I felt some tightness in my chest that was aching. It was associated with some burning sensation on top of my back and around my shoulder blades. Since I had cold, the condition has got worse and has remained for few days constantly. It is slightly painful and causes discomfort. I get quick sharp pain while stretching or lifting. The pain gets worse when I am standing. I have chest congestion and off late been coughing up yellow phlegm. My chest feels tight when I cough. I have been having neck pain too. I am very much worried and concerned about my heart. I will be flying for a few days so, now it is giving me a huge concern. I would like to know, is it the start of a heart attack? Please help. Thank you in advance.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have thoroughly gone through your case and can understand your genuine concerns. Firstly, let me assure you that it is not a heart attack. So, you need not have to worry.

The Probable causes

The probable cause is Muscular spasm for example: respiratory muscles like diaphragm, abdominal muscles, chest accessory muscles of respiration and back muscles. There is an aching lung tissue because of bad cough and chest infection (respiratory tract infections). When you cough on already aching muscles you will have chest tightness. This is known as the guarding reflex of the body.

Treatment plan

I would suggest you to start with these medications after consulting your cardiologist for physical examination. Take Tablet Azithromycin (Zithromax), Tablet Ebastine (Ebatrol), Tablet Ibuprofen (Advil). Start having a good cough syrup. If you are not allergic to vicks, then apply vicks vaporub over the chest and neck to get better relief.

Preventive measures

Start using a nebulizer. Use vicks warm mist humidifier. In case you are allergic to vicks, then use only plain water in the humidifier. Drink lots of fluids and take good rest. In order to prevent constipation, take lots of fiber rich foods and whole grain containing healthy foods. Avoid processed foods, coffee, tea and energy drinks.

Regarding follow up

For further queries consult a cardiologist online.

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

Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif
Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Cardiology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Cardiology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy