Sudden Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Pain in the lower left chest?

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I have been experiencing sudden sharp pains on the left side of my chest, extending to the lower part of my left breast.
Sometimes the pain lasts only a few seconds, while other times it can last for 3 to 5 minutes (and pressing on the area can be painful).
I would like to know which specialty I should consult for an examination.
A while ago, I went to the emergency room due to chest tightness and saw a cardiologist, who said my heart tests were normal.
However, lately, I have been experiencing sudden pain in the lower left chest.
Could this possibly be caused by gastroesophageal reflux?

Tianqing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/02

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, esophageal reflux typically causes pain in the upper abdomen and is less likely to be felt in the left chest.
I'm not sure if your pain worsens with inhalation or specific movements.
Based on your description, it seems more similar to pleurisy, costochondritis, or a muscle strain.
I recommend applying heat and getting plenty of rest.
If the pain persists, you may want to consider consulting a thoracic specialist.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/02/02

More Info

Sudden left chest pain can be concerning, and it’s important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical help. Given your description of the pain being sharp and intermittent, lasting from a few seconds to several minutes, it’s essential to consider various factors that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Firstly, since you have already consulted with a cardiologist and had heart examinations that returned normal results, it is reassuring that your heart is not the primary concern. However, chest pain can arise from several other sources, including gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal problems, or even anxiety.

One common cause of left-sided chest pain is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, chest discomfort, and even sharp pains that may mimic cardiac pain. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. If you notice that your symptoms worsen after eating or when lying down, this could be a strong indicator of GERD.

Musculoskeletal issues are another potential cause of your symptoms. Conditions such as costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum, can cause localized pain that may worsen with certain movements or pressure. If pressing on the area increases your pain, this could suggest a musculoskeletal origin.

Anxiety and stress can also manifest as physical symptoms, including chest pain. If you find that your pain is accompanied by feelings of anxiety, rapid heartbeat, or other stress-related symptoms, it may be worth exploring this aspect further.

Given the variety of potential causes, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You may want to see a gastroenterologist to evaluate for GERD or other gastrointestinal issues, especially if you have noticed any correlation between your eating habits and the onset of pain. Additionally, a visit to a musculoskeletal specialist or a physical therapist could help assess any underlying musculoskeletal problems.

In summary, while your previous cardiac evaluations are reassuring, it is crucial to consider other potential causes of your left chest pain, such as GERD, musculoskeletal issues, or anxiety. If the pain continues or if you experience new symptoms, seeking further evaluation from a gastroenterologist or a musculoskeletal specialist would be prudent. Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you feel something is not right.

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