A few nights ago I got very nauseous. After about 20 minutes I vomited three times. During this time, I had a terrible pain and pressure in my chest and neck. My arms were hurting terribly. Also, my hands were tingling. This lasted for about 15 minutes, then it slowly subsided. That was about three days ago now, and I still do not feel very well, and I have been lightheaded since. I have been told by my stepson that his neighbor told him that he had some symptoms something like mine, and his doctor told him he had a heart attack. Could you please tell me what you think I have had? It happened before, but never quite like this last time. Thank you.

Thank you for your question. You present a history that may be caused by heart disease. I would recommend that you see a physician immediately. You may have experienced a condition where the heart muscle is not getting adequate blood supply called "angina." You may also be having problems with your stomach or esophagus. The main thing to do immediately is to exclude the possibility of heart disease, which can have devastating effects if not diagnosed and treated early. Please keep us informed of how it goes.

Dr. Fung

-- Gordon Fung, MD, MPH, is a cardiologist and associate clinical professor of medicine at the University of California at San Francisco Medical Center at Mt. Zion.

First published March 30, 2004
Last updated June 24, 2008
Copyright © 2004 Consumer Health Interactive