Tearing feeling in chest and pain in arms. History of hypochondria and anxiety. Reason?
Patient: Hi my name is Evan. For the last month I have had a problem with reflux. My diet is not good lots of fatty foods, acidic drinks. I started a new job last week and have till today have had a tearing feeling in middle of my chest as well as everynow pains in arms or legs. I do have a history of hypochrondria and anxiety. Could my worrying about my reflux condition and stress of new job cause this feeling in my chest. I have been tested this week and my blood pressure is normal. Please help I am worried as it is near my left breast and worried about my heart. I also feel pressure on my chest when I lay down or in the night. Doctor: Hello, Thanks for the query to H.C.M. Forum. I would come up with these possibilities and measures for these symptoms , these includes.1 The first possibility is of hyper acidity ( gastritis ) , diagnosis can be confirmed by upper G I endoscopy.Try raising the head of your bed about 4 inches with blocks.It might also help to avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours before you lie down.To help control the stomach acid one should not drink alcohol or drinks with caffeine in them or eat chocolates or spicy or greasy food.Also take some antacid but if symptoms are severe then you may need drugs like proton pump inhibitors.2 The next possibility may be coronary artery disease due to tension and anxiety . Diagnosis can be confirmed by E K G & ECHO  of heart.3 Tension and anxiety develops acute pain behind sternum due to esophagitis .Diagnosis can be confirmed by clinical as well history of illness by a physician.In my opinion consult a physician and get his opinion.Good luck. Dr. HET