Chest Tightness
Basics
Chest tightness is a sensation of pressure or discomfort in the chest, often described as feeling like a band is squeezing the chest.
Common causes
Anxiety or stress, leading to muscle tension.
Respiratory issues like asthma or respiratory infection.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Heart-related conditions.
Chest muscle strain or inflammation.
When it's okay to monitor symptoms
If chest tightness is occasional and related to stress or anxiety.
When it resolves with relaxation techniques or a change in posture.
When to talk to a doctor
Persistent or recurrent chest tightness.
Chest tightness accompanied by shortness of breath or pain.
If you have a history of heart disease or risk factors.
When to seek emergency care
Sudden and severe chest tightness, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing or pain radiating to the arm or jaw.
Chest tightness that gets significantly worse with exercise like walking up stairs.
Chest tightness if you have a history of heart problems, especially if associated with other serious symptoms like nausea or sweating.
Home remedies and over-the-counter medications
Practice deep breathing exercises or meditation to reduce stress.
Maintain good posture to alleviate muscle tension.
Over-the-counter antacids if chest tightness is related to indigestion.