Chest Pain: When to See a Cardiologist

Cardiac issues

Hello, I have been experiencing sharp pain in my left chest about 2 to 3 times a month for the past month.
The pain also radiates to my back and I feel pain while breathing.
It hurts with any movement, but the episodes last only about 1 to 3 minutes.
However, there is no pain on the right side.
Which department should I visit for a consultation? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/02

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, it is likely that you have mitral valve prolapse or a neuromuscular issue.
Observation is sufficient; however, if you continue to experience discomfort, it is advisable to visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/10/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding chest pain, especially when it is characterized by sharp pain in the left chest that radiates to the back and is exacerbated by movement, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a cardiologist. Chest pain can be indicative of various conditions, some of which may be serious, including cardiac issues.

The symptoms you describe—sharp pain in the left chest that extends to the back and is aggravated by movement—could be related to several potential causes. These include musculoskeletal issues, such as costochondritis or muscle strain, but they could also be related to cardiac conditions, especially if they occur with exertion or are associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea.

In your case, since the pain occurs 2-3 times a month and lasts for a short duration (1-3 minutes), it may not immediately suggest a life-threatening condition. However, the fact that it is localized to the left side and radiates to the back warrants a thorough evaluation. It is essential to rule out any cardiac causes, particularly if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or if you smoke.

A cardiologist can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress testing to evaluate the heart's function and blood flow. These tests can help determine if there are any underlying issues such as ischemic heart disease, which could manifest as chest pain during physical activity.

Additionally, it is important to consider other non-cardiac causes of chest pain. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anxiety, and even certain lung conditions can present with similar symptoms. A thorough history and physical examination by a healthcare professional will help differentiate between these possibilities.

If you decide to see a cardiologist, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including when they occur, their duration, any associated symptoms, and your medical history. This information will assist the cardiologist in making an accurate diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

In summary, given your symptoms of left chest pain that radiates to the back and is aggravated by movement, it is prudent to consult a cardiologist. They will be able to conduct the necessary evaluations to rule out any serious cardiac conditions and provide you with peace of mind or appropriate treatment if needed. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain.

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