Chest Pain

As you all know, I have been trying to get back into shape - any shape other than round.

Friday, I got off work early and decided that I was going to exercise at 6 - it can't be THAT much hotter an hour earlier, can it? Apparently I had forgotten that I live in southeast Texas.

I jogged a total of a mile in my 3.5 mile course in the heat that was almost unbearable.

By the time I finished, I was experiencing such severe chest pain, I could barely breathe. By the time I got home, I was dizzy from not being able to take a deep breath (and I was driving myself...outstanding judgement, I know).

After some Internet research, I had convinced myself that either my lung was collapsing or my ribs were broken (I had already ruled out a heart attack) - and I had conveniently factored out the main cause of both of these things - blunt trauma to the area. Nothing like freaking yourself out for no reason - and yes, I proudly claim the title of hypochondriac.

Further research brought up pleurisy or inflammation of the pleural membranes, which is MUCH LESS SCARY than chest pain. The doctor confirmed my diagnosis saying that it was likely "no big deal".

After two days of rest and countless rounds of ibuprofen, the chest pain has minimized and my breathing is almost back to normal. Thank goodness, because it scared the crap out of me.