Chest pain, muscle/gastric/heart???

[Alysn]

Hi I'm new but need some advice.
For the past 3 days I have had a dull ache in my upper left chest. (just to the left of my sternum but high, close to my collar bone) This pain/ache radiates down the back of my left arm just to my elbow and around to my left shoulder blade. I am 25 years old and I am overweight but very active.

It all started Wednesday after I ate a very heavy meal....fettuccini alfredo...heavy cream. That night I could hardly sleep because of the chest discomfort. It is now Saturday and it is still there. I thought it might be gastric related so I have watched what I have eaten. I have only had: oatmeal, salad, rice and fat free yogurt.

Tuesday, I helped my husband put together a play kitchen for our toddler daughter. This involved holding pieces together really tight so he could screw them. And also, I always carry my 26lb daughter on my left hip. Maybe it is a pulled muscle? I also have bursitis in my right shoulder.

I know that it is not likely to be a heart problem because of my age, the location, and the fact that it has been a steady ache....not really getting better but never hurting more. However, I am adopted and do not know my family medical history. This is always in the back of my mind...I want to be safe and not overlook anything that could be serious.

Any suggestions? I will probably go see my doctor on Monday (I am a nurse and work nights at a children's hospital and must work Sunday night. If sleep permits I will go Monday)

[selmaS]

   Hi  I am so  glad u got an answer and a course of treatment.

Best wishes for an uneventful surgery and recovery.

I hope u post an update on how u make out : )

    "selma"

[Alysn]

It was gallstones. I am having surgery Tuesday. FYI for anyone with similar problems. It is very scary anytime your chest hurts. Although mine turned out to be my gallbladder radiating pain into my upper left chest, you should still have it checked as soon a possible.

[selmaS]

  

  Hi...going to the Dr is the best plan...go and have ur heart checked, that way u have something to compare since u do not know ur family history.

It is possible it was from ur food...and it is good to modify ur diet and lifestyle...but do see a dr, have ur heart checked and know what symptoms can be from reflux.

  http://www.medhelp.org/gerd/articles/What-is-Heartburn/247

      "selma"