Brief Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice

Chest pain?

Hello, I sometimes experience a brief pain on the inner side of my right chest that lasts for just 1 or 2 seconds.
If I don't pay attention to it, it seems to go away and feels normal, but if I think about it, the pain returns intermittently.
Sometimes there are periods when I don't feel any pain at all, and other times it suddenly starts again.
What could this symptom be, and which specialist should I see? Thank you.

Ju Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/11

Dr. Zhang Ziyan reply Pulmonology

Hello, if the chest pain is intermittent and not persistent, there may not be too much to worry about.
However, if it becomes persistent or worsens, it would be advisable to consider consulting a pulmonologist.
Please follow the guidance of your treating physician for further details.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/07/11

More Info

When it comes to brief chest pain, especially if it's localized to one side, there are several factors to consider before determining whether medical advice is necessary. The symptoms you describe—sharp, fleeting pain in the right side of your chest that lasts only a second or two—can be concerning, but they can also be benign. However, understanding the context and potential causes is crucial.

Potential Causes of Brief Chest Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: One of the most common causes of brief chest pain is musculoskeletal strain. This can occur due to activities that involve heavy lifting, awkward movements, or even prolonged periods of poor posture. If the pain is related to movement or specific positions, it may be muscular in nature.

2. Nerve Irritation: Conditions such as intercostal neuralgia, where the nerves between the ribs become irritated, can cause sharp, brief pains in the chest. This type of pain can be triggered by certain movements or even by breathing deeply.

3. Gastrointestinal Problems: Sometimes, chest pain can be related to gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux or esophageal spasms. These conditions can cause sharp, fleeting pains that may mimic cardiac pain.

4. Cardiac Concerns: While brief chest pain is often benign, it’s essential to rule out any cardiac issues, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Conditions like angina or even a heart attack can present with atypical symptoms, including brief episodes of pain.

5. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also manifest as physical symptoms. Anxiety can lead to episodes of sharp chest pain, often accompanied by other symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given the variability of your symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional if:
- The pain becomes more frequent or intense.

- You experience additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea.

- You have a history of heart disease or other risk factors.

- The pain persists or changes in nature.

Which Specialist to See
For initial evaluation, you might consider visiting a primary care physician. They can perform a thorough assessment, including a physical examination and possibly some basic tests like an EKG or chest X-ray. Depending on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist, such as a cardiologist if they suspect a heart-related issue, or a pulmonologist if there are concerns about lung function.

Conclusion
While brief episodes of chest pain can often be benign, it’s essential to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if your symptoms change or worsen. Early intervention can help rule out serious conditions and provide peace of mind. Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain.

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