Elanor,

I can't say exactly what your chest heaviness might be. I have had palpatations on and off for years. It feels like my heart is doing flips in my chest, I feel a little dizzy and short of breath all at the same time. It only lasts a seconds but it is a bit scary! Make sure you mention this to your MD, it could be something serious like atrial fibralation. Some people require medication if this happens frequently, or lasts a long period of time.

As far as the shortness of breath I usually have problems with the humidity, I feel like there is an elephant sitting on my chest, I get a good air exchange but I tend to do alot of shallow breathign when it happens. I also get short of breath if I talk to fast or too much on the phone, I have to stop myself and take a few deep breaths to feel better.

Rachel