Chest tightness and discomfort: what to know

The sensation may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness, burning or a band around the chest. It can occur with breathing problems such as Asthma or COPD, or with heart-related symptoms such as Angina. Reflux can irritate the food pipe and cause burning behind the breastbone. Stress and panic can tighten chest muscles and change breathing, but anxiety should not be assumed until urgent causes have been considered.

Notice when it starts, how long it lasts, whether activity or meals affect it, and whether it spreads to the arm, back, neck or jaw. Record breathlessness, sweating, nausea, dizziness, palpitations or wheezing.

Stop strenuous activity and sit upright. Loosen tight clothing and breathe slowly without forcing deep breaths. Do not drive yourself if the discomfort is severe, worsening or accompanied by faintness. Arrange a clinical assessment for new, recurring or unexplained symptoms; an examination may include heart and lung checks and tests chosen from your pattern.

Call emergency services for chest pressure or tightness that is severe, persistent or returning with exertion, especially with trouble breathing, fainting, cold sweating, marked weakness, confusion, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Seek prompt care for a new symptom with fever, coughing blood, or rapidly worsening breathing.

Could the timing, triggers and associated symptoms point to a heart, lung, digestive or muscle cause? Which warning signs should make me seek emergency help? Do I need a review of medicines, asthma treatment or reflux symptoms?