Wednesday, July 16, 2008 Amuncy asks

Q: I have heaviness with crushing pain between my shoulders can that be a sign of heart attack?

I have been to the cardiologist that said I have angina. I have had a heart cath 5 years ago and it showed normal. I do have a lot of stress on me right now but the pain is different than before. I have had pain shoot down both arms and was severe. I have broke into a sweat a few times.

I am embarrased to go to the doctor because I dont want to say i feel like a heart attack is coming on when it is just stress.

Saturday I had pain in the chest feeling my chest and back were in a vice and was squeezing pain. I took a nitro and it eased the pain but didnt take it away competely.

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Answers (1)

Martin Cane, M.D., Health Pro

7/16/08 8:57pm

Amuncy,

Thanks for your question. The symptoms you are describing are very concerning for the presence of heart disease. By your own admission, they have changed since your heart catheterization 5 years ago. You need to be evaluated by your doctor as soon as possible. Should you have another episode before your appointment, you should go to the nearest emergency room.

There are other possible causes for your pain, but all are minor when compared to heart disease. There is no reason for embarrassment, especially when the risks are so great. If your doctor determines that your symptoms are not heart related, relief will clearly outweigh any embarrassment.

Before your appointment, review this website to get more information about heart disease. This will come in handy when speaking with your physician.

Best wishes.

Martin Cane, M.D.

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Q: I have heaviness with crushing pain between my shoulders can that be a sign of heart attack?

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