Understanding Uncomfortable Chest Sensations: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosing

Experiencing a weird, uncomfortable feeling in the right side of your chest can be alarming and frustrating, especially when it persists over a long period and doesn't align with typical medical conditions like panic attacks. This article aims to provide insight into the possible causes of this sensation, the importance of seeking medical advice, and some potential diagnoses based on the details you have shared.

Chronic Evidence of Uncomfortable Chest Sensations

Your description of a prolonged, soft, continuous hitting sensation on the right side of your chest began two years ago. The pressure in this area has persisted despite your efforts to manage it through lifestyle changes and natural remedies. The vague and intermittent nature of the sensation renders it challenging to diagnose with common conditions like anxiety or depression.

Potential Medical Conditions and Symptoms

There are several medical conditions that could present with a sensation similar to yours in the right side of your chest. Some of these include:

1. Liver Disorders

Although your symptoms started before the intake of antidepressants and benzodiazepines, liver disorders can cause discomfort or pressure in the upper abdomen, which might radiate to the chest area. Common indicators of liver problems include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal swelling. However, without additional jaundice or other classic signs, liver issues might be less likely in your case.

2. Kidney Damage

Kidney issues can also cause discomfort in the flank area, which may be felt on the right side of the chest. This discomfort can be experienced as pressure or a dull ache. If kidney function is compromised, you might have other symptoms like swelling, frequent urination, or blood in the urine. However, without these symptoms or visible signs, kidney damage is less probable but not entirely ruled out.

3. Cardiac Anxiety and Chest Sensations

Although there is no pain or coughing accompanying your discomfort, episodes of angina and other heart-related issues can present as fluttering sensations similar to the one you describe. Chest discomfort experienced during breathing can indeed be a sign of angina, which is caused by reduced blood supply to the heart muscle. It is crucial to rule out any cardiac causes, as ignoring this could lead to serious health issues, including a heart attack.

Diagnostics and Further Steps

Given the persistence and nature of your symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation. Some diagnostic tests your healthcare provider may recommend include:

1. Blood Tests

These tests can help identify underlying issues such as liver or kidney function. Blood tests can also detect signs of inflammation, infections, or other conditions that might be causing your discomfort.

2. Imaging

Tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can provide detailed images of your internal organs, helping to pinpoint any abnormalities or blockages that might be causing the sensation in your chest.

3. Cardiac Evaluation

Tests like an ECG, echocardiogram, or stress test can assess your heart's function and rule out cardiac causes for your chest discomfort.

Summary and Conclusion

Exploring the reasons behind the weird, uncomfortable sensation in your chest involves a combination of medical examination and diagnostic testing. It's important to focus on both the physical and psychological aspects of your wellbeing. While lifestyle changes and natural remedies can be beneficial, they may not be sufficient for persistent and unexplained symptoms.

Please consider the following steps to address your concerns:

Seek a comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging, and cardiac assessment. Discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider in detail, mentioning how the sensation is triggered and its impact on your daily life. Explore additional mental health support if anxiety or depression are complicating factors in your overall wellbeing.

Remember, the body is complex, and persistent symptoms like yours should not be taken lightly. Timely medical evaluation and proper diagnosis are crucial for your health and peace of mind.