Aching pain in chest/arms

[Hunter2413]

For about two weeks now, I have been having these aching pains in my chest and arms that last for hours at a time. At first, the pain was limited to just my left side of my chest but has progressed since then. It seems like to me when I do not think about the pain it simply goes away but, as soon as I think about the pain, it comes back immediately. I can even feel it in my back sometimes and neck. I am freaking myself the crap out over this because I do not know what could be wrong. My parents and brother (who is a nurse) have told me it is either a pulled muscle or stress but I have ruled out the pulled muscle. My question is, could stress really make me feel this pain all over my upper body? Or do you think this could be something much worse? I do have a doctor appointment this Wednesday with my normal doctor to get his opinion on this. I am also 18 years old and in great shape. Anything would help!! Thank you and God Bless!!!!!!

[michigan07]

Stress and anxiety can do a lot to the body. When I have large amounts of it I feel nauseous and get muscle aches exp in my back. You mention you are in great shape so working out is a great way to reduce stress/anxiety.

[Tocldja]

Hey there:)

Take a deep breath, everything is okay. I know that's what everyone says, but I understand. I have these problems too. For a year now I've been having severe anxiety issues. I too get chest and arm pain. There's nothing seriously wrong with you, you're gonna be fine. To answer your question, stress and anxiety can cause these symptoms. Here, I'll share a link that might make you feel better. It makes me feel better too. It's just a list of anxiety symptoms: http://www.anxietycentre.com/anxiety-symptoms.shtml

I used to have upper-abdominal pain that would go away whenever I didn't think about it. Trust me, you're okay. It's just stress that's making you think you have an illness, or that there's something wrong. I've been there. If you need to talk, just message me and I'll get back to you:) we can get through it together! Hope I helped!