What Causes Heaviness In Chest And Constriction In Throat?

Posted on Thu, 19 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 19 Mar 2015 Answered on

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Yes, I am 65+, had undergone angioplasty about 8 years ago. I am taking medication after angioplasty. I have been maintaining moderate eating and drinking habits, though I have been asked to avoid oily and other cholesterol rich food/drinks. Being a very committed and hardworking official, even after retirement from service, I am employed which keeps me busy (very long hours in office, and commuting time to office and back due to heavy traffic) and does not allow me for regular walks. Now of late, I find it difficult to brisk walk for 10 minutes or more because as I walk for some time, there is a constriction in my throat and heaviness in the chest. If I stop and remain static for sometime, the constriction eases and I can continue. This is more so in the morning. Can you tell me why is so? Is it a sign of blockage again?. I am yet to see my Cardiologist in XXXXXXX due to heavy rush. I know a visit to my Cardiologist is overdue. Would you mind giving me a diagnosis for the causes of this condition and what do you advise?

Answered by Dr. Krunal Karade (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Constriction in throat might because of allergic postnasal discharge.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for the query.

I have read your query , reviewed your medications and understand your concern.

In my opinion , constriction in throat might because of allergic postnasal discharge & heaviness in chest because cardiac problem .

If I were your treating Doctor for this case , I would advice you
Steam Inhalation twice daily,
Saline nasal spray thrice daily like solspre &
Salt water gargle twice daily .

You will get relief .

To get complete relief you will need ENT examination & anti allergy medication like Combination Steroid nasal spray with antihistamine 1 puff each nostril twice daily like Duonase nasal spray .

Get the Cardiologist consultation done as soon as possible .

Hope it is helpful to you . If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj