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You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Women's Health > Family, Internal Medicine, General Medical Questions > severe contracting pain felt in chest area and back
Expert: Robert Borucki - 10/31/2009
Question
I'm a 47 year old female with. Although I am a smoker and have mild COPD, and a Mitral Valve Prolapse. I have excellent blood pressure and heart rate. BP only seems to rise with severe pain and migraines. I also have RA, OA, DDD, DJD, Osteoporosis and FMSHave been having bouts of severe pain - feels like contractions - in between my breasts (breastbone?), which is felt straight through to my back and right shoulder. This pain radiates up the front of my chest and into my throat. I've also been having sensations (?) of fullness, indigestion and feelings of food stuck in my throat, tightening/closing of my throat or esophogus or lump in the throat. This pain comes on swiftly and takes awhile to pass. The first time I felt it I thought I was having a heart attack, but have since dismissed the idea, as it occurs 3 - 4 x per week. My question is, what could be causing all of this pain and discomfort?
Answer
I would be worried about reflux, esophagitis, ulcer, or a possible tumor in the esophagus... this should be evaluated right away, start with your primary doc and then to a gastroenterologist if needed. Also, make sure there isn't any coronary artery disease... blockages in the heart arteries... this doesn't sound like it but with the cigs, it could be there.
Your denial is pretty impressive in your first couple of sentences.... notwithstanding the excellent bp and HR.... you have emphysema (COPD) at a very young age AND continue to smoke? Do anything you can to quit.... med help with Chantix or Welbutrin. Or if you aren't ready to give up nicotine, get it in a form that bypasses the lungs! Nicotine gum, nicotine lozenges, nicotine nasal spray, nicotine patches...... it is time to give up cigs.
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