I am having chest pains, but im not sure if it is a pulled muscle or a problem with my heart. It just came on all of a sudden while I was excersising around an hour ago. The pain is just to the left of the centre of my chest and its most painful when I breathe heavily, in and out. I am also having pins and needles in my left little finger. I am 22, 57 and have no history of medical problems. Do you think it is a pulled muscle or something else? I would be greatful for your advice
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of musculoskeletal pain due to pulled muscle is more. But since it is left sided chest pain, better to first rule out heart diseases. So get done ECG first. If ECG is normal then no need to worry about heart diseases. Follow these steps for better symptomatic relief in musculoskeletal pain. 1. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. 2. Avoid bad postures in sleep. 3. Avoid movements causing pain. 4. Take painkiller like ibuprofen. 5. Apply warm water pad on affected areas. Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.