What is wrong with my chest?

[big_mac_jack]

Hi everyone, appreciate any thoughts/advice that anyone might be able to share!

I have had what feels like a persistent twitch in the lower right side of my chest (maybe even on the ribcage, but hard to explain exactly), on and off for over a year.

Once started, it repeatedly twitches around every 3-4 seconds, lasting for 1 second, It can last for many hours or until I go to sleep. However I tend not to feel it when exercising or walking/active in some way.

It could also be described as a sort of, pulsing or fizzing sensation.

It isn't painful at all, but it is highly distracting and uncomfortable and makes concentration / work almost impossible.

Have previously been referred to a cardiologist and had many blood tests, but these have come out clear.

Anxiety was given as a potential cause, but this time symptoms have come on whilst on a two month break, with healthy lifestyle habits (lots of exercise, no work stress, healthy eating, limited alcohol) which is now quite concerning. I don't feel anxious about anything at all other than this one symptom.

I have spoken to several gps due to babylon app, but this is often difficult as it feels like you're starting from scratch every time. I have also been referred to a neurologist, which I am waiting for, but thought I would see if anyone recognises these symptoms here who may be able to help.

Does this sound familiar to anyone? I'm desperate for it to stop.

Thanks in advance for any advice

Jack

[cyberbarn]

Babylon health might seem like a great thing, but when it comes to chronic or long term conditions, nothing beats having continuity of care from a single GP.

Have you seen a physiotherapist? There are a lot of muscles in and around the rib cage and maybe it is muscular and they could help while you are waiting to see the neurologist. I hope you can get some answers, because I bet it is really annoying at times!

[big_mac_jack in reply to cyberbarn]

Thanks! I think a physio is the next worthwhile step, thank you for recommending it. These things always take longer than you want as well.

Would just be nice to work or watch TV without having to try and zone it out, its exhausting!

[Glamily4me]

Sounds like a nerve problem.. Maybe slightly trapped

[Batty1]

Could be a muscle spasm since it seems to come on when doing non-active stuff.

[Purple69st]

Hi I have a similar problem mine is not as frequent but on the right side of what feels like the chest /rib cage it is annoying at times i found that if I run the area it helps or apply gently heat

[Hidden]

A number of times, throughout my life, I developed a persistent eye twitch in my left eye. Once it went on for six months straight. Like you, I found that it was related to stress, but it also seemed to be muscular. When I had my neck gently adjusted by a physical therapist (I think this is called a "physiotherapist" in the UK?), it really helped. I haven't had it in a long while, even during the pandemic. I agree with the poster who suggested you go to a physiotherapist for advice. You seemed to have managed your stress very well for a while (notice how the body can relax during sleep?), but you may need expert help. Best wishes! I know full well how annoying a twitch can be, and how it feels as though it will never stop!!

[big_mac_jack in reply to Hidden]

Thanks so much for your reply, a couple of people have recommended a physiotherapist now (honestly I hadn't even thought of that)... but you're right, maybe it could be I'm all out of line and things are trapped or not working right.

I'm also looking to get some CBT sessions, I figure if I can't necessarily get rid of it, I will need to learn how to live with it!

Appreciate you taking the time to respond.