Brief Answer:
EKG , panic attack likely

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

Based on the description that you gave, it appears to be a panic attack with palpitations. Palpitations are basically unpleasant sensation/ perception of the heart beating as normally one is not aware of one's heart beating. However, a cardiac cause should be ruled out to be on the safe side. An EKG can be done to look for rhythm abnormalities or pattern suggesting ischemia. If none are found then alprazolam along with low dose propranolol (if there is associated tachycardia) can be advised. Hurting in the back between shoulder blades and aching feeling between breasts can be associated with GERD if no ischemic changes are present on EKG. PPIs with pro kinetics will help with GERD. Troponins can also be advised if suspicion for a cardiac cause is high.


Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Let me know if you have any query

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.

For future follow up / correspondence you may ask me directly at the link given below

http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=68107

Dr. M.S. Khalil

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Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello again.

Its difficult to predict the timing though the severity can vary in individuals with some recovering merely by slowing down their breath and meditating while others requiring medication. They can last from 5 to 10 minutes. In severe cases they may last for up to 2 hours.

Panic attack can be due to anxiety, recent stressful period, acute illness, genetic predisposition or idiopathic i.e for which a cause cannot be identified. It is one differential, as I said, a cardiac cause must be excluded first.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Dr. M.S. Khalil

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