What causes feeling like chest going to explode with hypertension history?
Patient: I am a physician and have not been able to get a straight answer on thses symptoms myself.  I will wake up from a nightmare where my chest feels like it is going to explode.  I normally have a fast heart rate in the low 90's.  When I wake up I am in the 60's and by 30 seconds am back to a normal rate and the chest pain abates.  I have no history other than HTN and have had these symtoms over a decade.  I have been on anti-hypertensives for about 4-5 years so it is not the medication. Doctor: Hello!Thank you for asking on HCM!I read your question carefully and understand your concern. Your symptoms seem to be related to nightmares and anxiety. This is a common sleeping disorder, associated with autonomic nervous system activity. Have you measured your blood pressure during these episodes?I recommend consulting with your GP for a careful physical examination, a resting ECG, a chest x ray and some blood lab tests : - complete blood count- fasting glucose- thyroid hormone levels (thyroid dysfunction could explain some of your symptoms)- kidney and liver function tests - blood electrolytes, etc. An ambulatory 24-48 hour monitoring would be necessary to exclude a possible cardiac arrhythmia. Hope to have been of help!Best wishes, Dr. Iliri