Published on: 7/9/2025
What could be causing tightness in both the chest and throat?
Tightness in the chest and throat can be caused by conditions like acute coronary syndrome or vocal cord dysfunction, which may feel similar to asthma.
Explanation
Feeling tight in the chest and throat can be worrying, and it can happen for different reasons. One possible cause is acute coronary syndrome, where the heart is not getting enough blood, and this can sometimes feel like tightness in the throat as well as the chest.
Another reason could be vocal cord dysfunction. This is when the vocal cords do not open correctly, which can make it hard to breathe and feel tight, much like asthma. It is important not to confuse this with asthma because the treatment is different.
If someone is feeling this kind of tightness, it is important to talk to a doctor to find out what is causing it. They can help figure out if it is something like a heart problem or an issue with the vocal cords and suggest the right treatment.
(References)
- Fang Y, Cheng X, Peng W, Chen X, Tang C, Huang Q, et al. (2022). Atypical manifestations of acute coronary syndrome - throat .... Frontiers of medicine, 35075578.
- Brugman SM, & Simons SM. (1998). Vocal cord dysfunction: don't mistake it for asthma. The Physician and sportsmedicine, 20086814.
- Malaty J, & Wu V. (2021). Vocal Cord Dysfunction: Rapid Evidence Review. American family physician, 34783512.
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