Sharp Pain in the Lower Left Chest During Breathing: What to Know

Sharp pain in the lower left side of the chest during breathing?

Hello, doctor! Occasionally, I experience sudden sharp pain in my heart, and I cannot take deep breaths because it causes sharp pain in the lower left side of my heart.
This condition has persisted for about six months.
A few months ago, it occurred infrequently, but in the past month, the frequency has increased.
I read that this may be similar to symptoms of "mitral valve prolapse." Should I see a pulmonologist or a cardiologist at the hospital?

Mr. Hsu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/14

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, you can go to the cardiology outpatient clinic for further examination.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/08/14

More Info

Experiencing sharp pain in the lower left chest during breathing can be concerning, and it's important to approach this symptom with caution. Given your description, it seems that you have been experiencing this pain intermittently for about six months, with an increase in frequency over the past month. This could indicate a potential underlying issue that warrants further investigation.

Firstly, it's crucial to differentiate between cardiac and non-cardiac causes of chest pain. Conditions like mitral valve prolapse (MVP), which you mentioned, can indeed cause sharp chest pain and may be associated with palpitations or anxiety. MVP occurs when the heart's mitral valve doesn't close properly, which can lead to various symptoms, including chest discomfort. However, there are other potential causes of your symptoms that should also be considered.

1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Pain in the chest can often be related to muscle strain, rib injuries, or inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum (costochondritis). These types of pain can be sharp and may worsen with deep breathing or movement.

2. Pulmonary Conditions: Conditions affecting the lungs, such as pleuritis (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), pneumonia, or even a pulmonary embolism, can cause sharp chest pain that is exacerbated by breathing. These conditions may also present with additional symptoms like cough, fever, or shortness of breath.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Sometimes, gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux or esophageal spasms can mimic cardiac pain. These conditions can cause sharp, stabbing pain that may be mistaken for heart-related issues.

4. Cardiac Issues: While less common in younger individuals without risk factors, cardiac conditions such as angina or even myocardial infarction (heart attack) can present as sharp chest pain. It is essential to rule out these serious conditions, especially if the pain is new, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea.

Given the complexity of chest pain and the potential seriousness of cardiac issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention. When you visit the hospital, you should consider seeing a cardiologist, as they specialize in heart-related conditions and can perform necessary tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress tests to assess your heart's function. If the cardiologist rules out cardiac causes, they may refer you to a pulmonologist or a gastroenterologist based on your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to mitral valve prolapse or other non-cardiac issues, it is essential to get a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious conditions. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, especially since the frequency of your symptoms has increased. Early diagnosis and management can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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