<s>[INST] why do i seem to have pains in my chest region that can take my breath away. also when i eat salty food i get chest pains. i have had very painful feelings in the area where i know my heart to be in the central area of my chest slightly to the left, when this occurs it is hard to breath due to the pain cause when my chest cavity expands. i fear heart problems, i have experienced a cracking or popping sound form this area when i struggle through the pain to take a breath. this has maybe only occurred 10 or so times since i can remember.. any advice. [/INST] Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, you are mostly having HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) related symptoms because your symptoms worsen after eating. But better to rule out heart diseases first because you are having left sided chest pain. So get done ECG and 2d echo. If both are normal then no need to worry about heart diseases. HERD is more likely in your case. It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause chest pain. So avoid stress and tension. Avoid hot and spicy food. Avoid large meals, instead take frequent small meals. Start proton pump inhibitors and prokinetic Chat Doctor.  Quit smoking and alcohol if you have these habits. Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks. </s>