This has only started recently without any change to my physical activity or anything Im eating. Sometimes when I have a bowel movement I get extremely painful chest pains, lots of sweating and nausea (Im not constipated). Ive also been waking up every night with cold sweats and mild chest pain. I saw my doctor and he said I probably just have Costochondritis, and to just take an anti-inflammatory. However this keeps happening, what else could it be? My mother said this happened to her on and off for about a year before she had her heart attack at age 34 (non-smoker).
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, we should definitely rule out heart diseases first. So first get done ECG, 2d echo and stress test. If all these are normal then no need to worry about heart diseases. Sometimes HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can be the cause. HERD is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause symptoms. So take combination of antacid (pantoprazole) and prokinetic (levosulperide). Avoid hot and spicy food. Avoid junk food. Go for walking after meals. Keep 2-3 pillows under head in bed to prevent reflux. Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. But first rule out heart diseases. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.