Chest and Side Pain: Causes Beyond Developmental Changes

Pain

I apologize for the inquiry: During the breast development period, is it normal to experience pain on the outer sides of the breasts? I previously consulted a surgeon who mentioned that it was due to developmental changes, but I still feel something is not quite right since we should have already passed that developmental stage.
I would like to know if the pain is indeed related to development or if there are other factors involved.
The pain tends to come and go, with the left side experiencing longer episodes of discomfort, and it has been frequent lately.
Additionally, I have pain on the left side of my abdomen; I believe one side might be related to the liver, but I'm not sure since the liver is on the right side.
However, I sometimes experience significant pain on the left side.
Over a month ago, I had an X-ray, and I noticed a dark area on the left side of my body in the X-ray image.
At the time, I thought it might be an issue with the screen, so I didn't ask many questions.
However, now I feel something is wrong because of the persistent pain on my left side.
Could that dark area be related to my pain? I would appreciate it if Dr.
Lin could help me find an answer.
Thank you.

Ju, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/26

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery

A 17-year-old girl experiencing breast pain who has already seen a surgeon, if no other causes are identified, is likely dealing with developmental issues.
Due to good nutrition, breast development may continue until the age of 17.
Most women experience breast tenderness around their menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes, which is a common reason for this discomfort.
If there are still concerns, it may be beneficial to consult another surgeon or a breast specialist.

As for the left-sided abdominal pain, there are many potential causes.
An X-ray showing a dark area likely indicates air in the colon, which is normal to see.
Young girls often experience constipation, leading to less bowel movement and the presence of gas in the intestines, which can cause bloating and discomfort.
It is advisable to have a gastroenterologist evaluate the situation.
Wishing you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2006/10/26

More Info

Understanding chest and side pain can be complex, especially when it involves concerns about development and potential underlying health issues. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing pain in the outer sides of your chest, particularly on the left side, and also discomfort in your abdomen, which you suspect may be related to your liver.

Firstly, it is important to note that chest pain can arise from a variety of causes, and while developmental changes during puberty can lead to discomfort due to hormonal fluctuations and tissue growth, persistent or recurrent pain in adults should be evaluated more thoroughly. The fact that you mentioned the pain is intermittent and has been occurring frequently raises the need for further investigation.

Common causes of chest pain in adults include musculoskeletal issues, such as costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum), muscle strain, or even nerve-related pain. Given that you have already consulted with a surgeon who attributed your pain to developmental changes, it might be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a specialist, such as a cardiologist or a pulmonologist, especially since you are experiencing pain predominantly on the left side, which can sometimes be associated with cardiac issues.

Regarding the abdominal pain you mentioned, particularly on the left side, it is essential to consider various organ systems. The liver is located on the right side of the abdomen, but pain can sometimes be referred from other areas. Conditions affecting the spleen, stomach, or even gastrointestinal issues like gastritis or peptic ulcers could manifest as left-sided abdominal pain. The "black spot" you observed on your X-ray could be a point of concern, and it would be prudent to follow up on this with your healthcare provider. It is possible that further imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may be necessary to clarify what that finding represents.

In summary, while developmental changes can cause discomfort, the persistence and nature of your pain suggest that further evaluation is warranted. It is crucial to communicate your symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider, including the frequency, duration, and any associated symptoms (such as changes in appetite, weight loss, or other systemic symptoms). This information will help guide the diagnostic process.

Additionally, if you experience any acute changes, such as sudden severe pain, shortness of breath, or other alarming symptoms, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns with a qualified healthcare professional will help ensure that any underlying issues are identified and managed appropriately.

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