I went to bed fine last night but woke up just after 1am with a bad pain in my chest, I panicked thinking I was having a heart attack but I had no other symptoms like shooting pains in arms etc. Eventually got back to sleep but was uncomfortable the whole night with my chest hurting no matter what way I lay. This morning my chest is still sore, when I woke up and stretched my chest made a cracking/popping sound.
I am generally healthy and in my mid 20's, not on any medication. I did lift a heavy item into the car yesterday but did not feel any pain at the time. The first time I noticed was during the night when the pain woke me up.
Have I just pulled a muscle or is it something I need to go and get looked at?
You might indeed have pulled a muscle, but could it also be trapped wind? Wind in the chest can be very painful. Do you have a walk in centre near you? Might be worth popping in, just to set your mind at rest.
It might be wind but would it last that long? Forgot to say it seems to be worse if I roll my shoulders forward or back. I don't think we have a walk in centre (I'm in Northern Ireland), I can always make an appointment with the doc though if need be.
Sounds very much like you have strained your muscles, that often doesn't give you any pain until later when it starts to sieze up. Can't account for the noises but then most of my body does that first thing in the morning. You should always see a doctor if it is worrying you tho.