A client reports chest pain that subsides with relaxation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

The presentation of chest pain that subsides with relaxation is characteristic of angina pectoris. Angina is typically defined as a type of chest pain or discomfort that is often triggered by physical activity or emotional stress and improves with rest or relaxation. It occurs due to insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle, often as a result of narrowing of the coronary arteries.

In this scenario, the fact that the pain diminishes with relaxation suggests that it is likely related to myocardial oxygen demand exceeding supply, which aligns with the typical behavior of angina.

In contrast, a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, usually presents with more persistent chest pain that does not improve with rest and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath.

Pneumonia presents with respiratory symptoms such as coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing rather than isolated chest pain that resolves with relaxation. Gastroesophageal reflux can cause chest discomfort and pain, but it usually correlates with meals rather than being specifically relieved by relaxation alone. Therefore, the context of the pain and its responsiveness to relaxation strongly indicates that angina pectoris is the most likely diagnosis.