Identifying and treating chest tightness and pressure

Chest tightness and pressure are common symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma. They may occur concurrently with other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing, making it difficult for the patient to breathe.

In this article, we will explore the underlying causes of chest tightness and the most common treatment plans.

Identifying chest tightness

Chest tightness is a feeling that your torso is constricted, as if there were a bad wrapped around it and you had to push from the inside in order to breathe. This can lead to difficulties inhaling and exhaling and can be accompanied by other common asthma symptoms.

It is important not to underestimate chest tightness, as it may be a sign that a patient’s asthma is worsening or an asthma attack is about to start.

Another aspect to take into consideration is the possibility of a patient suffering from CTVA, or Chest Tightness Variant Asthma, a type of asthma where tightness and pressure are persistent, and a specific medication plan may be required.

Finally, another cause of concern is how chest tightness can be anxiety-provoking, potentially leading to panic attacks and other psychological issues.

Causes of chest tightness

Chest tightness may be caused by different reasons, the most common of which include:

• Airways narrowing. This is common in asthma: a patient’s bronchi, or upper airways, constrict because of inflammation, swelling, and mucus production, making it hard for air to pass through
• Airborne triggers. Cigarette smoke, strong fragrances, air pollutants, pet dander or plant pollen may lead to irritation and constriction in sensitive people
• Respiratory infections. Mucus and irritation may be another cause of chest tightness and pressure

When to seek medical help

Although people suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions may be familiar with chest tightness and pressure, it is always important not to underestimate them.

Pay attention to how recurrent your episodes of chest tightness are, and how your body responds to medication. If you feel pressure around the same time every day, or as soon as your breathing medications are wearing off, there may be causes for concern.

Contact your healthcare provider in case of severe discomfort, or when experiencing some of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain and tachypnea, i.e. abnormally rapid breathing
• Nausea, dizziness or fainting
• Anxiety or panic attacks, feeling of impending doom or overwhelming fear that things will go horribly wrong

Treatments for chest tightness and pressure

Several different types of medications can help control the feelings of chest tightness and pressure, the most commonly used being the following.

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators reduce the feeling of pressure by relaxing the muscles around the airways. There are two types of bronchodilators:

• Long-acting bronchodilators like tiotropium bromide. They are not intended for quick relief, instead, they are taken daily in order to prevent symptoms from developing
• Short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol. They are commonly used in rescue inhalers to provide immediate relief when severe symptoms arise

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids like budesonide can reduce swelling making it more comfortable to breathe. They are most commonly inhaled for immediate relief, though oral versions are also available and may be even recommended in some cases.

Anticholinergics

When taken daily, anticholinergics prevent muscle bands from tightening around the airways to relieve chest tightness. They are commonly administered via an inhaler or a nebulizer and are typically used in combination with corticosteroids.

What to keep in mind

Whether the feeling of chest tightness is due to respiratory conditions or not, it is always advisable to contact your healthcare provider in order to identify the cause of your discomfort and design the appropriate treatment plan.

Do not take symptoms lightly and go see your physicians in case you notice exacerbations. Never take medication that has not been prescribed, and consult your doctor in case you don’t feel relief from your current treatment plan.