CHEST TIGHTNESS CAUSES SHORTNESS OF BREATH.

Shortness of breath — known medically as dyspnea — is often described as an intense tightening in the chest, air hunger, difficulty breathing, breathlessness or a feeling of suffocation.

Very strenuous exercise, extreme temperatures, obesity and higher altitude all can cause shortness of breath in a healthy person. Outside of these examples, shortness of breath is likely a sign of a medical problem.

Tightness in the chest can be caused by multiple issues. Reasons include infection, injury, anxiety, cardiovascular conditions, lung conditions, and digestive issues.

If you feel like your chest is tightening, you may worry that you’re having a heart attack. However, gastrointestinal, psychological, and pulmonary conditions can also cause a tight chest.

When to see a doctor about a tight chest
You should see a doctor immediately if you suspect that you’re having a heart attack. Symptoms of a heart attack include:

pain
squeezing
burning
pain that lasts for several minutes
continual pain in the middle of your chest
pain that travels to other areas of the body
cold sweating
nausea
difficulty breathing

What is the outlook for a tight chest?
Chest tightness isn’t a symptom to take lightly. If you experience chest tightness with other concerning symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Chest tightness could be a symptom of a serious health condition, like a heart attack.

If your chest tightness is the result of anxiety, you should discuss the symptoms with your doctor. Anxiety should be treated early to keep it from getting worse. Your doctor can help you implement a plan that’ll reduce anxiety and chest tightness. This may include lifestyle adjustments that help you manage the anxiety from home.