Inner Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Pain in the medial aspect of both breasts?

Hello, I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing.
I feel pain when pressing on the inner sides of my breasts every day, particularly on the left side, where there is less breast tissue in the middle.
However, I do not feel pain on the outer edges of my breasts.
Upon careful examination, I do not detect any lumps, only the bony edges beneath the breast.
The area of pain is limited to the inner half of the breasts, and the pain is quite intense, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact location.
A few years ago, during a follow-up for a fibrocystic condition, I mentioned this to the doctor who performed the ultrasound, but they only indicated that it was the ribs and did not find anything significant.
At that time, the pain was not daily; it would come and go.
In recent years, I have been wearing sports bras or bralettes without underwire, so it should not be related to my undergarments.
I would like to know what other possible causes there might be and which specialist I should consult.
Thank you.

CL, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/10

Dr. Tang Yuxiong reply Surgery

Hello, if you have fibrocystic changes, it is recommended that you continue regular follow-ups with a breast surgeon.

Reply Date: 2020/02/10

More Info

Inner chest pain can be concerning, especially when it is persistent and localized as you described. There are several potential causes for the pain you are experiencing, and understanding these can help you determine the appropriate next steps.

1. Musculoskeletal Issues: One of the most common causes of localized chest pain is musculoskeletal in nature. This can include costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. This type of pain is often exacerbated by certain movements or pressure on the chest. Given that you mentioned pressing on the area causes significant pain, this could be a likely cause. Muscle strain from physical activity or poor posture, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer, can also lead to discomfort in the chest area.

2. Nerve-Related Pain: Another possibility is nerve-related pain, such as intercostal neuralgia, which occurs when the nerves running between the ribs become irritated or compressed. This can lead to sharp, localized pain that may feel worse with certain movements or pressure.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Sometimes, pain that feels like it is coming from the chest can actually be related to gastrointestinal problems, such as acid reflux or esophageal spasms. These conditions can cause discomfort that mimics heart-related pain, especially if it is associated with eating or lying down.

4. Cardiac Concerns: While your symptoms may not immediately suggest a cardiac issue, it is essential to rule out any heart-related problems, especially given the left-sided nature of your pain. Conditions such as angina or even more serious issues like a heart attack can present with chest pain. However, these are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, or radiating pain to the arm or jaw.

5. Fibrocystic Changes: Since you mentioned a history of fibrocystic changes in the breast, it is worth noting that these can sometimes cause discomfort or pain in the breast area, particularly during certain times of the menstrual cycle.

Given the complexity of chest pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. You may want to start with your primary care physician, who can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies such as an X-ray or ultrasound to rule out any structural issues. If musculoskeletal or nerve-related pain is suspected, they may refer you to a specialist such as an orthopedic doctor or a neurologist.

In the meantime, consider keeping a pain diary to track when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any associated activities or factors. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your inner chest pain, it is crucial to seek medical advice to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent any potential complications and provide you with relief from your symptoms.

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