For a few years now, Ive been having these pains in my chest. They re about in the middle of my sternum or in my lower left ribs. It s a kind of sudden, pinching feeling that makes it difficult to breath. These pains often go away after I just stay still and try my best to not irritate these pains. I am an 18 year old female, already diagnosed with PTSD.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation and problem. In my opinion it is PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) related chest pain only. But better to rule out cardiac cause first. So get done ECG first to rule out cardiac cause. If ECG is normal than no need to worry about cardiac cause. PTSD can also lead to HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this, acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause the central chest pain. So avoid stress and anxiety. Be relax and calm. Take proton pump inhibitor for HERD. Consult psychiatrist for proper treatment of PTSD. You will be alright. Don't worry much.