The pain(s) may be located in one spot, or may move all over the chest area. The pain(s) may radiate to the left shoulder, right shoulder (or both), or into the breasts.
These sensations may be sporadic or linger indefinitely, and can also be experienced as sharp, stabbing, and piercing, or as persistent tightness, pressure, or fullness. Any combination can occur.
These sensations are commonly misconstrued as heart problems or the signs of a heart attack, which can sometimes cause enough fear to cause intense fear and even panic attacks.