I would have it checked out, because i have had 3 episodes like that in the past 4-5 weeks, the first two happened within a week of each other. the 3rd happened a good 3-4 weeks after the initial.
I went to the E.R. after the first, they did an EKG on entry said it was fine, did a chest x-ray said i was fine, than did a second EKG because i told them i wanted to double check because i was still in alot of pain. they did it and they lady said your heart actually seems extremely healthy. Fine and dandy but it still feels like its going to explode lol...
I did an extensive EKG with my doc, and am taking a blood test here soon...
First, I would check with your doctor about this. It sounds to me like it is muscle spasm related, but, I would want to rule out anything heart-related if it were me.
I have the same symptoms you do at times. I have several herniated disc's that were discovered during an MRI of my upper back. I also have costochondritits, that is inflammation of the ribs and it can really hurt, especially when you take a deep breath or bend down or sit in a funny position. The pain can mimic a heart attack big time. Given the fact that you do a lot of lifting being a CNA, this could be your problem, ask your chiropractor, I see one, and he helps my problem. Oh yes, if you have a hiatal hernia, this can be a cause of chest pain when swallowing. LOL I have one of those as well. So, I am talking to you from experience. I do know that all the anxiety you are going through is not helping your problems any, you are uptight, thus, making your muscles, and your heart is a muscle, uptight and irritable as well.
Hope this helps.