Left Chest Pain Near the Clavicle: Causes and Next Steps

There is pain at the lower edge of the left chest during breathing, and there is also pain near the left clavicle?

TO: Dr.
Wu
I have experienced this symptom since childhood (it seems to occur after running), but I didn't pay much attention to it at the time.
I need to breathe slowly, as I sometimes feel short of breath, and deep breathing causes pain.
Currently, I occasionally have pain in the lower left chest or near the left clavicle, although it doesn't happen frequently and is not related to exercise.
Additionally, I occasionally experience gastroesophageal reflux (also infrequent).
I hope Dr.
Wu can provide an initial explanation of my symptoms and advise me on which specialty to consult.
Thank you for your help!

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/10

Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology

A chest X-ray can be performed to examine the lungs for any lesions.
Based on the description, it may be intercostal neuralgia.
It is recommended to consult a pulmonologist for a detailed examination.

Reply Date: 2016/09/10

More Info

Understanding left chest pain near the clavicle can be quite complex, as it may arise from various underlying causes. Your description of the symptoms, including pain during deep breathing and occasional shortness of breath, suggests that there could be several factors at play.
Firstly, it’s important to consider the musculoskeletal system. Pain near the clavicle can often be attributed to muscle strain or tension, especially if you have a history of physical activity, such as running. The muscles around the chest and shoulders can become tight or strained, leading to discomfort that may feel worse with certain movements or deep breaths. This is particularly common in individuals who engage in physical activities without proper warm-up or stretching.

Another possibility is that the pain could be related to costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the sternum. This condition can cause localized pain that may worsen with deep breaths, coughing, or certain movements.
Additionally, considering your mention of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it’s worth noting that acid reflux can sometimes cause referred pain in the chest area. The esophagus runs close to the heart and lungs, and irritation from stomach acid can manifest as chest discomfort, which might be mistaken for cardiac-related pain.
Given the complexity of chest pain, it is crucial to rule out any cardiac issues, especially since you are experiencing pain on the left side of your chest. While your symptoms may not be frequent or severe, any chest pain warrants careful evaluation. Conditions such as angina or even myocardial infarction (heart attack) can present with atypical symptoms, particularly in women or individuals with risk factors such as obesity, smoking, or a family history of heart disease.
I recommend that you consult a healthcare provider, preferably a cardiologist, to conduct a thorough evaluation. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress testing to assess the heart's function and rule out any serious conditions. If cardiac issues are ruled out, you may then be referred to a pulmonologist for lung-related concerns or a gastroenterologist for gastrointestinal issues.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to musculoskeletal strain or GERD, it is essential to prioritize your health by seeking medical attention. A comprehensive evaluation will help identify the underlying cause of your left chest pain and guide appropriate treatment. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain.

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