Aches & Pains / Question
Published: June 20, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I started having chest pains every time I wore my backpack yesterday. Well the thing is it's sort of heavy anyways. Also, sometimes right after I am done laughing at something my chest starts to hurt. It started to happen 2 days ago. What is wrong? Is there a possibility that I have cancer?
Signed: Chest Hurts When Laughing
Dear Chest Hurts When Laughing,
A muscle strain would seem more likely than cancer. It seems you only experience discomfort when there is movement or stress placed on your chest muscles. However, the only way to know for sure is to be examined by a doctor. A simple x-ray would probably tell the doctor everything he or she would need to know.
Worrying that you may have cancer is an awful burden and probably causes you a lot of anxiety. Seeing a physician and having the problem diagnosed is a good way to unburden yourself and relieve the anxiety.
If you would like to meet with a doctor from the Adolescent/Young adult Center For Health in Morristown, New Jersey, you can call 973.889.6350 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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