heart pain - Heart Disorders Message Board

rosie31650 · 06-02-2005, 11:37 AM

Just a question that may sound dumb. I am 50 years old with a very strong history of heart disease in my family, (mother, brother, grandparents, etc.) Off and on, I have been having severe chest pains around my heart. It feels as if a clamp is being squeezed and released. It lasted approx. 10 min. and afterwards, I felt weak and lightheaded. I wish now that I would have gone to the hospital, but I don't want to be made to feel as if I am stupid. Also, I have no insurance. Does this sound like it could be my heart? Also, does anyone know of any programs that could help me with medical? I just do not know what to do. Thanks

happybunny · 06-03-2005, 10:57 AM

I thought I was a healthy 54-year-old with no risk factors until I started with chest pain - central position and just like something was pressing on my chest for 5-10 minutes then it would lift. Turned out I had extremely high cholesterol (genetic) and had a positive exercise ecg. When I had an angiogram I was found to have very bad blockages (one 95% and one 90%). They have now been sorted and I feel great after my angioplasty. I'm getting back to good fitness again.

When I look back I cringe when I remember that I delayed going to see my doctor, I had 6 definite bouts of angina before I went. I was playing with fire!

Don't be like me. Go and see your doctor. The squeezing pain you are getting sounds like it could be angina. It can be described as crushing, pressing, squeezing rather than sharp. Do go and get checked out.

Good luck. Take care.

rosie31650 · 06-03-2005, 12:44 PM

Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. I guess I am really playing with fire. I am so happy to hear you are doing well and I hope for your continued good health.

heartcreature · 06-03-2005, 02:18 PM

Rosie it is very important that you get checked out. Delaying can not only cause death but it can also cause permanent damage to the heart that can leave you disabled.

rosie31650 · 06-04-2005, 05:04 AM

Yorklivr... Thank you so much, I live in Florida. It is so surprising that people blow off these symptoms as you did and as I am now doing. I will find some help asap. I really appreciate all the wonderful words of encouragement, although it is a bit frightening. My main concern, i guess, (which, I know is ignorant) is thinking it may be something and feeling like a fool. I will take your advice and thank you so much. I can not believe you have 5 stents. My mom has 3, my younger brother has 1 stent, my older brother had quadruple bypass and my mom triple bypass. My mom is not doing very well, it has been over a year now since her op and she now has congestive heart failure. She says, "no more surgery". Why have you been hospitalized so many times? Was each one pertaining to your heart? What you have been through is amazing.