Questions posted in the Heart Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: Chest Pain
Forum: The Heart Forum
Topic Area: Echocardiography
Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on November 30, 1998 at 08:52:23:
In Reply to: Chest Pain posted by Scott on November 29, 1998 at 22:42:40:


After having what I thought was a heart attack I was told I actually was having an anxiety attack. Had echocardiogram of heart & carotid arteries, stress test, 48 hour holter monitor, blood work, & numerous EKGs. Cardiologist said I was fine except I had MVP with slight regurgitation. I am much better now, but still experience chest pain, pressure & discomfort. Sometimes have dizzy spells & neck numbness. Sometimes its just pressure, and sometimes pain thats worse if I take a deep breath. The other day it hurt when I pressed my hand in the area in middle of chest below pec area. *** 29 yr old male ***

1. I work out 5 times a week. Could my anxiety problem make my chest muscles more easily damaged during exercise due to tension? Should I stop weight training & stick just to cardio?

2. Is this just part of MVP and the symptoms are just now showing themselves?

3. Should I see another cardiologist?

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Dear Scott

1. Anxiety would not make your chest muscles weak. The weight lifting could, of course, be making your chest muscles tender. It may be worthwhile to stop and just continue with the aerobic exercise.
2. Frankly, I would not attribute any of your symptoms to the MVP with slight regurgitation. This degree of regurgitation should cause no symptoms. You should have a follow-up echo periodically to make sure it is not getting worse.
3. That is a personal choice. It sounds like this cardiologist has already done a thorough work-up. It is statistically unlikely for a healthy 29 year old male to have coronary artery disease. Another cardiologist would probably just repeat the same tests. Perhaps you should see someone who can address the underlying anxiety problem.

I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.

Information provided here is of a general nature. Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.

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