Sudden Sharp Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Tearing pain in a specific area of the chest?

Hello, on April 8th, when I woke up (still lying down), I suddenly felt a sharp pain in the lower right area of my breast that lasted about a minute.
Then, when I sat down on the second floor, I felt a brief pain for a few seconds.
Later that night, while lying on my stomach, I experienced the pain again for a few seconds.
On April 9th, when I sat down, I felt the pain for about 2 seconds.
The pain felt like tearing, not a stabbing or throbbing pain, and I have never experienced this before.
After the pain subsided, I lay flat and checked for any lumps or abnormalities, but there were none.
Touching the area does not cause any pain, and the location of the pain is consistent; it is always a sudden pain that lasts only a few seconds.
I am unsure if I need to see a doctor.
If necessary, which department should I consult? I have been taking Naproxen enteric-coated tablets for the past two to three months, currently one or more before bedtime.
Thank you.

Qiao Qiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/10

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

The sudden and severe chest pain you described resembles intercostal neuralgia, which is more common in young individuals and during periods of poor sleep quality.
There is typically no specific treatment, as it is often episodic pain without distinct tenderness upon palpation.

Reply Date: 2021/04/10

More Info

Sudden sharp chest pain can be alarming, and understanding when to seek medical attention is crucial for your health. Based on your description, the pain you experienced in the right lower area of your chest, which felt like a tearing sensation and lasted only a few seconds, could be attributed to several potential causes. It’s important to differentiate between benign and serious conditions, as chest pain can sometimes indicate a more severe underlying issue.

Possible Causes of Your Chest Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Given that the pain is sharp and occurs in specific positions (like lying down or sitting), it could be related to musculoskeletal problems such as muscle strain or costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting a rib to the sternum). These types of pain are often exacerbated by movement or certain positions and can be fleeting.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Sometimes, sharp chest pain can be related to acid reflux, where stomach acid irritates the esophagus. This can mimic heart-related pain and is often accompanied by a burning sensation.

3. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: If you have a history of anxiety, sharp chest pain can also be a symptom of panic attacks. These episodes can cause a range of physical symptoms, including chest pain, which can feel very real and distressing.

4. Cardiac Issues: Although less likely given your description, it’s essential to rule out any cardiac problems. Conditions such as angina or even myocardial infarction (heart attack) can present as chest pain. However, these typically come with other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw.

5. Pulmonary Issues: Conditions like a pulmonary embolism or pneumothorax can cause sudden sharp chest pain, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing. These are medical emergencies and require immediate attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given the nature of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially since this is a new occurrence for you. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain persists or worsens, it is essential to seek medical evaluation.

- Associated Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or nausea, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Frequency of Episodes: If the episodes become more frequent or last longer, it’s wise to consult a physician.

Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, starting with a visit to a primary care physician would be appropriate. They can perform an initial evaluation and may refer you to a specialist if necessary. Depending on their findings, you might be referred to:
- Cardiology: If there is any suspicion of heart-related issues.

- Pulmonology: If lung-related issues are suspected.

- Gastroenterology: If gastrointestinal problems are considered.

- Musculoskeletal Specialist: If the pain is determined to be related to muscle or skeletal issues.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may not immediately suggest a severe condition, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain. Monitoring your symptoms, noting any changes, and seeking medical advice will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and timely intervention can make a significant difference.

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