I ve been getting sharp pains in my chest for the last 6 months. They last between 5-10 seconds and happen inconsistently if I take a deep breath after the pain my chest feels tight and sore. I don t get it every day i can go a few days but it happens at least 2 or 3 times a week. I ve read that it could be pleurisy. I m just wondering what would cause this?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Pleurisy (inflammation of pleura), heart diseases and anxiety are likely cause for your chest pain. Pleurisy is seen in pneumonia, pleural effusion, tuberculosis etc. So get done chest x-ray to rule out these causes. If chest x-ray is normal than no need to worry about pleurisy. Get done ECG and 2d echo to rule out cardiac diseases. If both of them are normal than no need to worry about heart diseases. Stress and anxiety can cause similar symptoms. So consult psychiatrist and get done counseling sessions. Try to identify stressor in your life and start working on its solution. You may need anxiolytic Chat Doctor.  So avoid stress and tension, be relaxed and calm. Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.