What are the common causes of pain under the left breast. How can you identify the symptoms of various conditions causing this discomfort. What treatment options are available for managing pain under the left breast.

Understanding Pain Under the Left Breast: An Overview

Pain under the left breast can be a concerning symptom, often leading individuals to worry about serious underlying conditions. This discomfort can stem from various sources, ranging from minor issues to more severe medical problems. Understanding the potential causes, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention are crucial steps in managing this type of pain effectively.

The left side of the body houses several vital organs, including the heart, spleen, stomach, pancreas, and large intestine. Additionally, the left lung, left breast, and left kidney (which sits higher than the right one) are all located in this area. Given the complexity of this region, pinpointing the exact cause of pain under the left breast requires careful consideration of various factors.

Heart Attack: A Serious Concern for Left Breast Pain

One of the most alarming potential causes of pain under the left breast is a heart attack. As the leading cause of death in America, heart disease and its acute manifestations deserve immediate attention when suspected.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

• Squeezing, tightness, or pressure in the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting (more common in women)
• Fatigue
• Discomfort in the arm, shoulder, and jaw

It’s important to note that not all heart attacks present with chest pain. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, approximately one-third of individuals experiencing a heart attack may not feel any pain at all. When pain does occur, it can last for several minutes or come and go intermittently.

Treatment for Heart Attacks

How are heart attacks typically treated? Medical professionals may recommend various interventions depending on the severity and specifics of the case. Common treatments include:

• Angioplasty: A procedure using a balloon to unclog blocked coronary arteries, often followed by stent placement to keep the artery open.
• Coronary bypass surgery: This involves taking a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body and using it to “bypass” a blocked artery.

Preventing Heart Attacks

Can heart attacks be prevented? While not all risk factors are controllable, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce their risk:

1. Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids, and low-fat dairy.
2. Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week, as recommended by the American Heart Association.
3. Consider medications such as ACE inhibitors to decrease blood pressure and statins to lower cholesterol, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Pericarditis: Inflammation Around the Heart

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium (the thin, two-layered membrane surrounding the heart), is another potential cause of pain under the left breast. This condition can result from various factors, including autoimmune diseases, infections, heart attacks, and chest injuries.

Recognizing Pericarditis Symptoms

How can you identify pericarditis? The most common symptom is sharp, stabbing pain in the chest. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this pain often intensifies when lying down, coughing, or swallowing. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain radiating to the back, neck, and shoulder
• Tiredness
• Anxiety

Treating Pericarditis

What treatment options are available for pericarditis? Healthcare providers may recommend:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Antibiotics (if the cause is bacterial)
• Steroids
• Pain relievers
• In some cases, draining fluid from the pericardium

Preventing Pericarditis Recurrence

To prevent recurrence or complications of pericarditis, it’s essential to:

1. Seek prompt treatment when experiencing symptoms
2. Rest and follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently
3. Protect yourself from heart disease by maintaining a healthy lifestyle
4. Always wear a seatbelt and proper protective sporting equipment when engaging in contact sports

Precordial Catch Syndrome: A Common Cause in Young Adults

Precordial catch syndrome is a condition most prevalent in older children and young adults. It occurs when the nerves of the chest wall become pinched or irritated, leading to localized pain under the left breast.

Causes of Precordial Catch Syndrome

What triggers precordial catch syndrome? According to the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, several factors can contribute to this condition:

• Injury to the chest
• Growth spurts
• Poor posture

Symptoms and Characteristics

How does precordial catch syndrome manifest? The primary symptom is a sharp, localized pain in the chest that can be quite intense. This pain may:

• Last for a few seconds to a few minutes
• Worsen with deep breathing
• Subside on its own without intervention

Managing Precordial Catch Syndrome

While precordial catch syndrome can be alarming, it’s generally considered harmless and doesn’t require specific treatment. However, individuals experiencing this condition can:

1. Practice relaxation techniques during episodes
2. Try shallow breathing until the pain subsides
3. Maintain good posture to potentially reduce occurrences

Costochondritis: Inflammation of Rib Cartilage

Costochondritis is another potential cause of pain under the left breast. This condition involves inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone (sternum), leading to localized chest pain.

Identifying Costochondritis

How can you recognize costochondritis? The primary symptom is chest pain that may:

• Range from mild to severe
• Worsen with movement or deep breathing
• Be tender to the touch in the affected area

Treating Costochondritis

What are the treatment options for costochondritis? Management typically involves:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
2. Application of heat or ice to the affected area
3. Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain
4. In some cases, physical therapy or localized injections may be recommended

Gastrointestinal Issues: A Common Culprit for Left-Sided Pain

Various gastrointestinal problems can manifest as pain under the left breast, given the location of several digestive organs in this area.

Potential Gastrointestinal Causes

What gastrointestinal issues might lead to pain under the left breast?

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcers
• Gastritis
• Pancreatitis
• Splenic disorders

Recognizing Gastrointestinal Symptoms

How can you differentiate gastrointestinal causes from other sources of pain? Look for accompanying symptoms such as:

• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Nausea or vomiting
• Changes in bowel habits
• Bloating or abdominal discomfort

Treating Gastrointestinal Causes

What treatment approaches are used for gastrointestinal issues causing left breast pain?

1. Dietary modifications to avoid trigger foods
2. Medications such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 blockers
3. Lifestyle changes, including weight loss and stress management
4. In some cases, endoscopic procedures or surgery may be necessary

Musculoskeletal Causes: Strains, Sprains, and More

Pain under the left breast can also originate from musculoskeletal sources, involving the muscles, bones, or connective tissues in the chest area.

Common Musculoskeletal Causes

What musculoskeletal issues might lead to pain under the left breast?

• Muscle strains or sprains
• Rib fractures or bruises
• Thoracic outlet syndrome
• Fibromyalgia

Identifying Musculoskeletal Pain

How can you recognize musculoskeletal pain under the left breast? Look for these characteristics:

• Pain that worsens with movement or specific positions
• Localized tenderness or soreness
• Possible swelling or bruising in the affected area
• Pain that may be relieved by rest or certain stretches

Treating Musculoskeletal Pain

What treatment options are available for musculoskeletal causes of left breast pain?

1. Rest and activity modification
2. Application of ice or heat therapy
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
4. Physical therapy or targeted exercises
5. In some cases, chiropractic care or massage therapy

When to Seek Medical Attention for Pain Under the Left Breast

While many causes of pain under the left breast are benign, it’s crucial to recognize when medical attention is necessary. Prompt evaluation can be lifesaving in certain situations.

Red Flags Requiring Immediate Medical Care

When should you seek emergency medical attention for pain under the left breast?

• Sudden, severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating
• Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back
• Chest pain accompanied by dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat along with chest pain
• Chest pain that worsens with exertion and improves with rest

Non-Emergency Situations Requiring Medical Evaluation

What symptoms warrant a non-emergency medical consultation?

• Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
• Pain that interferes with daily activities
• Recurrent episodes of chest pain
• Pain accompanied by unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Any new or concerning symptoms, even if mild

Preparing for Your Medical Appointment

How can you make the most of your medical consultation for left breast pain?

1. Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including onset, duration, and any triggers
2. Note any accompanying symptoms or changes in your overall health
3. Bring a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking
4. Prepare questions for your healthcare provider about your symptoms and potential causes
5. Be ready to discuss your medical history and any relevant lifestyle factors

Understanding the various causes of pain under the left breast and recognizing when to seek medical attention are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. While many instances of this discomfort may be benign, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional when in doubt. By staying informed and proactive about your health, you can ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly and effectively, leading to better outcomes and peace of mind.

Pain Under Left Breast: Causes, Treatment, and More

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Pain under your left breast can have many different causes, from heartburn to a heart attack. A healthcare professional can make a diagnosis based on your symptoms. If you have sudden, severe pain, it’s best to seek emergency medical care.

The left side of the body houses a number of vital organs. Under and around the left breastbone are the heart, spleen, stomach, pancreas, and large intestine. And that’s in addition to the left lung, left breast, and left kidney, which actually sits higher in the body than the right one. When you experience pain under the left breast, it can have a variety of causes — some simple, some serious.

1. Heart attack

Because the heart is located left and center in the chest — and because heart disease is the leading cause of death in America — a heart attack is often the first thing people think of when they experience pain near their left breastbone.

Symptoms

Squeezing, tightness, or pressure in the chest are common symptoms — but they don’t always occur. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, one-third of those experiencing heart attacks won’t have any pain. When there is pain, it can last for a few minutes or come and go. Learn more about the warning signs of a heart attack.

Other symptoms include:

• shortness of breath
• nausea and vomiting (usually more common in women)
• fatigue
• discomfort in the arm, shoulder, and jaw

Treatment

Your doctor may recommend surgery. Angioplasty involves using a balloon to unclog a blocked coronary artery. A stent will likely be placed to keep the artery open. Coronary bypass surgery takes a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body and grafts it to “bypass” a blocked artery. Here’s what you need to know about coronary bypass surgery and alternative treatments.

Prevention

A healthy diet (one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids, and low-fat dairy) can help prevent high cholesterol and high blood pressure and promote a healthy weight. Consider adding foods that can help lower your blood pressure.

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can have similar effects. The American Heart Association recommends aiming for 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week. This can help prevent heart disease.

ACE inhibitors can decrease blood pressure and reduce the heart’s workload while statins can lower cholesterol and plaque buildup on artery walls. These buildups can block arteries and cause a heart attack.

2. Pericarditis

This is an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered membrane that surrounds the outside of the heart. Pain occurs when the irritated membrane rubs against the heart. It can be caused by a number of factors — some preventable, some not. They can include an autoimmune disease (a disease in which the body fights healthy cells) such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, an infection, heart attack, and chest injury.

Symptoms

Sharp, stabbing pain in the chest is a common symptom. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the pain intensifies when lying down, coughing, or swallowing. Pain can radiate to the back, neck, and shoulder.

Tiredness and anxiety are also common symptoms of pericarditis.

Treatment

Your doctor may advise anti-inflammatories, antibiotics (if the cause is bacterial), steroids, or pain relievers. In some cases, your doctor will recommend draining any fluid in the pericardium.

Prevention

When you’re experiencing symptoms, seek treatment promptly, rest, and follow your treatment plan diligently. Protect yourself from heart disease by following the tips above. Always wear a seatbelt and proper protective sporting equipment when engaging in contact sports.

3. Precordial catch syndrome

Most prevalent in older children and young adults, this condition occurs when the nerves of the chest wall become pinched or irritated. According to the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, this can happen due to an injury to the chest, a growth spurt, or even bad posture. While precordial catch syndrome can mimic some of the symptoms of a heart attack, it’s a harmless condition that resolves on its own. Most people, in fact, will outgrow it by their mid-20s.

Symptoms

• sharp, stabbing pain, often on the left side of the chest
• sudden onset
• short-lived (three seconds to three minutes)
• pain that intensifies with deep breathing

Treatment

For pain, your doctor will likely recommend over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Self-care

Relaxation techniques (such as imagining a calm, serene scene) to reduce anxiety may be helpful. Improving posture (sit with head up, shoulders back) will keep the chest cavity open and reduce pinching. Deep breathing — while it can increase the pain — can also help to resolve an attack.

4. Pleurisy

This condition results when the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the inside of the chest cavity becomes irritated and inflamed. Common causes include a viral infection, such as the flu, or a bacterial infection, such as bacterial pneumonia. When the left lung is affected, left-side pain will result.

Symptoms

• chest pain, especially when breathing
• shallow breaths (to avoid painful deep breathing)

Treatment

Your doctor will focus on treating the underlying cause of the condition. After that, the Mayo Clinic recommends OTC pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB).

Self-care

Rest in a comfortable position and apply an ice pack to the chest.

5. Costochondritis

An inflammation of the cartilage that attaches your ribs to the breastbone, costochondritis affects more women than men and generally occurs after age 40. The Mayo Clinic reports that it’s generally felt on the left side of the breast. Causes include an injury to the rib cage, heavy lifting, an infection, and arthritis. Experts note, however, that it often has no identifiable cause.

Symptoms

• sharp, aching pain or pressure
• pain that worsens with coughing or sneezing

Treatment

Your doctor may recommend OTC or prescription-strength pain relievers and anti-inflammatories or steroids.

Self-care

Heat and cold therapy and bed rest will help relieve the pain. Avoid running, weight lifting, and manual labor, as they can worsen the problem.

6. Chest injuries

Any blow to the chest — from a fall, car accident, or playing sports — can break or crack a rib or bruise the chest. When it happens on the left side of the body, there can be serious complications. For example, the jagged edges of a broken rib may puncture the liver or spleen.

Symptoms

• tenderness where the injury occurred
• painful deep breathing
• pain when you twist

Treatment

Your doctor will recommend or prescribe pain-relieving medication.

Prevention

Deep-breathing exercises will help prevent shallow breathing and the risk of developing pneumonia. Wearing a seatbelt and protective sporting equipment will help protect the chest.

1. Gastritis

The stomach sits in the upper region of the left side of the body. When its lining becomes inflamed and irritated — thanks to things like infections, the use of certain medications, spicy foods, and chronic alcohol use — pain can develop.

Symptoms

• indigestion
• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal fullness
• pain in the upper-left portion of the body

Treatment

Your doctor may recommend OTC or prescription antacids as well as acid-reducing medications. If these don’t resolve the issue and bacteria are found to be the cause of your gastritis (many cases are tied to the bacterium H. pylori), you’ll be prescribed antibiotics.

Prevention

Avoid alcohol and spicy or hard-to-digest fatty foods. Eat small, frequent meals. You may want to try adding certain herbs to your diet. Ask your doctor if you can safely take myrrh, licorice, or clove.

2. Pancreatitis

The pancreas sits tucked behind the stomach. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when digestive enzymes are inappropriately activated while still in the pancreas, causing irritation.

Symptoms

• upper abdominal pain, especially when it radiates around the back
• nausea and vomiting
• fever
• oily stools

Treatment

Pain medication and anti-nausea medication can be beneficial. Surgery — for example, to remove gallstones if they’re the cause of the pancreatitis or to unblock any bile ducts in the pancreas — may also be suggested by your doctor.

Prevention

Because smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and a fatty diet can all contribute to pancreatitis, changing those habits can help.

3. Heartburn

When digestive acids start to erode the lining in your esophagus (windpipe), it can create a burning sensation in your throat and upper chest. Some people experience the pain behind the left breastbone and mistake it for a heart attack.

Symptoms

• sharp, burning pain
• tightness in chest
• pain that usually occurs after eating or while lying down
• sour taste in mouth
• feeling a small amount of stomach contents (regurgitation) rise up through the throat

Treatments

Your doctor may recommend antacids, either prescription or OTC. Your doctor may also advise taking acid-reducing or acid-blocking medications.

Prevention

Heartburn can be triggered by fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, garlic, and carbonated drinks, so you may need to change your diet. Elevating the head of the bed (about 8–11 inches) can help reduce the esophagus’ exposure to stomach acid while sleeping. Check out these other post-meal tips to ease heartburn.

1. Injury to the spleen

The spleen is an organ that sits to the left of the stomach and works primarily to filter blood. The Merck Manual reports that injuries to the spleen often result from car accidents, athletic injuries, beatings, and falls.

In addition, an enlarged spleen, which can result from certain viruses like mononucleosis (mono), can make the spleen more susceptible to injury. When the spleen is injured or even ruptures, it can leak blood into the abdominal cavity, irritating it. Since both the spleen and stomach sit on the left side of the body, upper-left pain isn’t uncommon.

Symptoms

• tenderness in the upper-left portion of the body
• dizziness and a drop in blood pressure if internal bleeding occurs
• tight abdominal muscles

Treatment

Surgery to repair or remove the damaged spleen is sometimes recommended. However, because the spleen helps the body fight infection, some doctors advocate against removing the spleen and instead encourage letting it heal on its own. Blood transfusions may also be necessary.

Prevention

Wearing a seatbelt and protective equipment when playing contact sports is the best way to protect the spleen.

2. Hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia is a condition that occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm (a muscle that separates the abdomen and the chest) into the chest cavity. When that happens, digestive acid can reflux into the esophagus. Because the stomach is located in the upper-left portion of the body, it’s not uncommon for pain to be felt there.

Symptoms

• heartburn
• pain that mimics a heart attack
• belching
• trouble swallowing
• inability to pass gas or stools

Oftentimes there are no symptoms, however.

Treatment

Medications to neutralize, reduce, or even prevent stomach acid or surgery to reposition the stomach into the abdominal cavity may be advised.

Prevention

Obesity and smoking up the risk of having a hiatal hernia. You’ll be advised to quit smoking and lose weight if necessary. Not straining with a bowel movement and limiting the amount of acid-producing foods (spicy foods, tomatoes, chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine) can also help reduce your risk.

Any sudden, abnormal, or debilitating pain — left side or otherwise — needs immediate medical attention. While not an exhaustive list, seek emergency care if you have:

• tightness or pressure in the chest, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with heart problems or the pain is accompanied by sweating, nausea, and shortness of breath
• trouble breathing
• an injury to the chest
• changes in your stools — either you can’t pass them or they look bloody, oily, or resemble tar
• pain that doesn’t improve with rest or starts to radiate to other parts of the body

Given the vital organs located there, pain under the left breast isn’t uncommon. In most cases, it’s not a heart attack. But because the pain can be intense and the symptoms worrisome, it’s worth getting them evaluated. In many cases, the conditions can improve with medication and lifestyle adjustments.

Causes, treatment, and when to seek help

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Pain under the left breast can have a range of causes from digestion to heart conditions. Home remedies may be enough to treat some conditions, but others require medical attention.

There are some organs in the upper left region of the body that could be the source of the pain. These include the stomach, heart, lungs, ribs, colon, pancreas, and spleen.

Doctors often group the most common causes of pain under the left breast into two main categories: digestive and heart-related.

This article looks at the different causes of pain under the left breast, their symptoms, and the treatment options available.

Share on PinterestThe pain of a heart attack tends to occur in the center of the chest.

As the heart is situated slightly to the left of the midline in the upper body, pain under the left breast can sometimes indicate a heart problem.

According to the American Heart Association, when pain does occur during a heart attack, it commonly happens in the center of the chest, lasts longer than a few minutes, and can return after fading.

Heart attack pain can cause a very strong, uncomfortable, crushing pressure or squeezing sensation, or it may feel like very bad heartburn. Some people may not experience any or only mild chest pain; this is more common in women, older people, and those with diabetes.

Other symptoms include:

• profuse sweating
• nausea or vomiting
• shortness of breath
• heavy, weak shoulders or arms
• severe pain traveling to the arm, jaw, neck, back, and elsewhere in the body
• dizziness
• a strong sense of anxiety or impending doom

Treatment

If someone suspects a heart attack, they should call an ambulance immediately. While waiting, they should rest, and if they are not intolerant to aspirin, they should take an adult-dose tablet (300 milligrams) to help thin the blood.

Further treatment options will depend on when symptoms started and how soon the person having the attack can access the first stage of care.

If the cause of the attack is found to be a blocked coronary artery, the doctor may recommend a procedure called an angioplasty to open a blocked or severely narrowed coronary artery with a balloon and possibly place a stent.

1. Angina

When the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen in the coronary artery blood supply, the resulting pain under the left breast or in the center of the chest is known as angina.

Associated symptoms include an uncomfortable feeling in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain can also feel like indigestion, and a person may also experience sweating, light-headedness, nausea, or shortness of breath.

Treatment

Angina is a possible symptom of severe underlying heart disease, so anyone experiencing symptoms of angina should seek medical attention immediately. A doctor may prescribe medication, such as beta-blockers, ACE-inhibitors, statins, or aspirin.

2. Pericarditis

The heart is surrounded and protected by a thin, layered, fluid-filled membrane called the pericardium. It can become inflamed due to infection or a disorder where the body’s immune system attacks itself.

Symptoms of acute pericarditis include:

• sharp, stabbing pain under the left breast or in the chest
• pain in one or both shoulders
• pain worsening when taking a deep breath or lying down on the back
• feeling hot, sweaty, feverish, light-headed, and short of breath

Treatment

Immediate treatment for pericarditis may include an OTC anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen and rest until feverish symptoms decrease. If a person experiences severe pain, a doctor may prescribe a steroid, such as prednisone.

If the condition is severe, the person may need to say in the hospital for monitoring.

Ibuprofen is available for purchase online.

Prevention

While acute pericarditis typically cannot be prevented, getting treated quickly and following a prescribed treatment plan will reduce the chance of the acute pericarditis recurring or becoming a long-term condition.

3. Gastritis

When the stomach’s lining becomes inflamed, this is known as gastritis. Not everyone will experience symptoms, but a sharp, stabbing or burning pain under the left breast is a potential clue that gastritis may be present.

The pain can also be accompanied by heartburn, feeling sick, vomiting, and bloating.

Treatment

For mild symptoms, changing the diet and lifestyle can ease pain under the left breast. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as antacids, can help reduce stomach acid.

Home remedy options include:

• reducing alcohol intake
• eating smaller portions more often, as opposed to one big meal
• cutting out dairy, spicy, fried, or acidic foods, and caffeinated drinks
• cutting down or giving up tobacco smoking
• reducing high intake of OTC non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• eating foods high in fiber and plant nutrients

If the pain is caused by or related to the presence of the bacterium called Helicobacter pylori, the doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics and medicine that reduces the production of stomach acid.

4. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis has symptoms that include:

• sudden, severe pain under the left breast and in the upper center part of the abdomen
• nausea and vomiting
• rapid pulse
• fever

Chronic pancreatitis, where the condition worsens over time, has symptoms including:

• frequent or prolonged episodes of pain under the left breast that can spread to the back
• nausea and vomiting
• oily, pale-looking stools
• diarrhea

Treatment

Treatment for chronic pancreatitis ranges from pain management, using increasing strengths of medication, to surgery if pain under the left breast is still severe.

For acute pancreatitis, immediate treatment includes:

• intravenous fluids to aid in hydration and ensure the body’s other organs have good blood flow
• no eating for 24-48 hours, then following a high-calorie diet to support healing
• giving intravenous pain medication or antinausea medication

5.

Heartburn

Share on PinterestHeartburn may cause a pain under the left breast.

When stomach acid travels back up the food pipe, it causes a burning sensation in the mid-chest and throat, and sometimes pain under the left breast. Heartburn can be a symptom of indigestion and stomach acid issues.

Symptoms include:

• a tight, burning sensation in the upper chest or throat that sometimes travels under the left breast and the jaw
• a bitter taste in the mouth
• pain under the left breast or in the chest while lying down or just after eating

Treatment

Self-help treatment options for mild heartburn include not eating big meals, not lying down to sleep right after eating, and raising one’s pillow, so the head is higher than the waist when sleeping. This may help prevent stomach acid from traveling up the food pipe.

OTC medications such as antacids are a first medical option to try and are available for purchase online.

6. Pleurisy

The lungs are surrounded by a layered membrane called the pleura. If the pleura surrounding the left lung become inflamed due to infection or another cause, the resulting pain will develop under the left breast.

More severe causes of pleurisy include rheumatoid arthritis and lung cancer.

The most common symptom of pleurisy is a sharp chest pain when taking a deep breath, but it can also be accompanied by:

• pain in the shoulder
• a dry cough
• shortness of breath

The pain can get worse when the person walks around, coughs, or sneezes.

Treatment

Rest is highly recommended. Lying on the side of the pain can help relieve pain symptoms.

If a person experiences particularly severe chest pain, they should seek immediate treatment from a doctor, who may prescribe NSAIDs or other pain-relieving medication.

A doctor may also carry out further tests, such as blood tests, a chest X-ray, a chest CT scan. They may also take a small sample of pleural lung tissue for biopsy.

Pleurisy caused by a viral infection often gets better after a few days, but a bacterial infection will require antibiotic therapy.

Prevention

The best way to prevent severe cases of pleurisy is early intervention.

7. Spleen

The spleen can cause pain under the left breast if it is enlarged or if it bursts following an injury.

Symptoms of an enlarged spleen include:

• tenderness and pain under the left breast
• feeling uncomfortable when eating even just a small meal
• anemia and extreme tiredness
• bleeding easily

A burst spleen typically will cause:

• pain under the left breast or ribs, and tenderness when touched
• bleeding
• dizziness and fast heart rate

Treatment

If a person suspects a burst spleen, they should go immediately to the emergency room. Bleeding can be life-threatening if left untreated.

A doctor will check for an enlarged spleen by feeling the abdomen and may recommend further testing through blood testing or imaging, such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI scan.

Underlying conditions, such as chronic liver disease and subsequent cirrhosis, can affect and interact with the spleen.

A doctor will prescribe medication when medical therapy is possible to treat splenic or liver disease. Surgery is only required if underlying causes cannot be diagnosed clearly, or if complications arise from the enlarged or damaged organ.

Prevention

People should aim to keep the spleen safe when playing sport by wearing protective sporting equipment. Always wearing the seatbelt when in the car is also advised.

As cirrhosis can be caused by excessive or long-term high alcohol intake, cutting down is recommended.

8. During pregnancy

Share on PinterestAs the uterus grows it may cause pain under the left breast.

Soreness and pain experienced under the left breast during pregnancy are often caused by pressure from the top of the uterus as it grows, or if the baby is kicking or punching the expectant mother. The pain can be worse when leaning forward.

Muscles and other tissues will stretch as the baby grows, and this can also cause pain under the breasts.

The expectant mother’s body is changing during pregnancy, and the internal organs will be pushed and moved as the baby grows. The mother’s body chemistry may also change, and other causes of pain under the left breast during pregnancy can include:

• heartburn with stomach acid reflux
• the rib cage changing position to allow space for the baby in the abdomen

Some conditions can be treated at home with rest and OTC medication, but people should seek medical attention straight away if:

• the chest is injured
• the pain under the left breast is unexpected
• symptoms of pain and tightness do not get better with rest
• shortness of breath, feeling sick, or profuse sweating accompanies the pain

Pain under the left breast is often frightening to experience. As there are several organs in this area of the body, the earlier the cause of the pain can be diagnosed, the more likely that treatment and recovery will be successful.

A heart attack is not the most common reason for pain under the left breast, but it is always better to have the symptoms checked out, especially if other symptoms of a heart attack are present.

Many causes of pain under the left breast can be prevented through making changes to several everyday lifestyle choices. Following a healthful diet, getting regular exercise, lowering or cutting out tobacco smoking, reducing alcohol intake, keeping weight down, and reducing stress can all help.

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Girdle pain in the chest area: causes, treatment

Any person can face a sharp, acute or aching girdle pain under the chest – from a child of preschool age to a pensioner. Often such a condition – especially if it arose suddenly, recurs on a regular basis, causes physical and psychological discomfort, deprives freedom of movement – makes you nervous. If this ailment is not a consequence, for example, of an injury received while playing sports, then you should not hope that the girdle pain in the chest area will go away by itself. Be sure to see a doctor.

Girdle chest pain: causes

A competent specialist will definitely identify what provoked the problem, focusing on the symptoms you indicated, as well as on the results of some studies (examinations, tests, etc.). As a rule, girdle pain, localized under the breast, can indicate a number of diseases. Sometimes it is easy to identify them, while in other cases it takes a lot of time to make a diagnosis. Since each disease has its own clinical picture and symptoms, it is worth considering each cause in more detail.

Spinal problems

Pathologies associated with the spine are the most common cause of girdle pain in the chest. In addition to scoliosis, a disease that is now observed in more than half of the population of Russia, the causes can also be various kinds of hernias, protrusions, neuralgia, osteochondrosis, which affect the back, but often go to the chest or under the ribs. Depending on the disease, not only the chest can hurt. The pain syndrome can radiate to the arm and shoulder blade, if there is a hernia, the back hurts, and when coughing, the pain intensifies.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Girdle pain that appears in the chest area is often included in the symptoms of diseases of the digestive system, which are located in the upper left and right quadrants of the abdominal cavity. This includes the intestines, stomach and pancreas, liver. Depending on the disease – rupture of the esophagus, pancreatitis, renal colic, ulcers and other pathologies – in addition to chest pain, the back or stomach area may hurt, heartburn, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms are noted

Diseases and pathologies of the heart

Acute girdle chest pain, observed at the level of the heart or around it, often signals ailments that develop in one of the main organs of our body. It can be angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, pericarditis and other heart diseases. Almost all of these conditions pose a huge threat to life, especially for older patients. Urgently see a specialist, delay can cost you dearly!

Respiratory diseases

Pleurisy, pulmonary tuberculosis, pneumonia – because of these diseases, it is not only difficult for a person to breathe: in the vast majority of cases, the symptoms expand, and pathological mucous, purulent or bloody discharge from the respiratory tract is noted, and girdle pain occurs under the chest.

Oncological diseases

Malignant tumors located in the lungs, liver, stomach and other organs adjacent to the chest, as well as metastases formed here, provoke burning, piercing pains under the breasts. Symptoms are typical for stage 2-4 cancer, when only chemotherapy or strong painkillers can help.

Injuries

Usually they are “earned” by professional athletes, but ordinary people are not immune from accidents. At risk are pensioners, postmenopausal women (the amount of calcium in the body decreases), patients with osteoporosis, newborns and children of primary preschool age.

Gestational period

The aching nature of girdle pain at the level of the chest is a frequent companion of the third trimester of pregnancy, when the fetus becomes so large that it presses on the organs adjacent to the enlarged uterus, and its movements cause discomfort to the woman.

How to relieve pain. First Aid

Almost all specialists who are directly or indirectly related to medicine will recommend that you first consult a doctor or call an ambulance team. But what to do if there is no such opportunity at the moment? Any anesthetic that suits you will help relieve an attack of girdle pain in the chest area. Among the most common are Ibuprofen (Nurofen) or Paracetamol, Drotaverine (No-Shpa). Remember that a number of diseases do not tolerate delay: for example, if you suspect a myocardial infarction, you should immediately call an ambulance.

Diagnostics

When you first contact neurologist , you will be assigned a series of examinations, including visual examination, palpation, as well as referrals for blood and urine tests. In addition, any responsible specialist will definitely prescribe an ultrasound, x-ray or MRI to verify their assumptions. In the event that girdle pain under the breast has a physiological cause (during pregnancy) and is not associated with pathologies, medications allowed during the period of bearing a child will be recommended.

Which doctor should I contact?

cardiologists , gastroenterologists , surgeons, oncologists or pulmonologists can deal with this problem. But most likely, therapist will refer you to narrow specialists: it is best to contact him if you do not understand what provoked the occurrence of girdle pain around the chest. The clinic “Energo” employs experienced doctors with many years of experience. These specialists are able to solve even the most complex problems, help patients quickly and with minimal losses to cope with the disease that struck them. Turning to us, you can be sure that assistance will be provided at the highest level and without delay. This is especially important in cases where the pathological condition threatens normal life. Call – we will be glad to accept you in our clinic, we will write you down for any convenient date and time.

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• SYMPTOMS
• CAUSES
• RISK FACTOR
• DIAGNOSIS
• TREATMENT
• TREATMENT IN THE ACTIVE CENTER

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The chest is the skeletal structure of the upper part of the human body and serves as protection for the most vital organs of the heart and lungs and large blood vessels (aorta, veins, etc.). In total, a person has 12 pairs of ribs, behind which are 12 thoracic vertebrae, each pair of ribs is connected to one of the vertebrae. The space between the ribs is called the intercostal space, in this space there are so-called intercostal muscles, which play a major role in expanding the chest during breathing.

Rib pain is a very painful sensation that extends between the ribs throughout the chest. Intercostal pain can be the result of inflammation of the muscles, nerve, cartilage. If you look for the causes deeper, these are already diseases of the internal organs, in particular the heart and lungs. Intercostal pain tends to worsen when a person breathes deeply, coughs, sneezes, torsos the chest, or presses on the painful anatomical area.

The causes of intercostal pain are numerous. Among the main causes of pain in the ribs include: intercostal neuralgia, fractures (cracks) of the ribs, muscle pain – thoracalgia (disease of peripheral nerves), costal chondritis (inflammatory process of cartilage tissue), osteoporosis of the ribs. Pain in the ribs varies depending on the underlying cause, changing its intensity and duration and location, for example, when the ribs hurt in front of or under the ribs, or the entire chest.

Intercostal neuralgia. This is a disease that occurs due to damage or disturbance of the intercostal nerves. This can be caused mainly due to the inflammatory process and nerve compression of the intercostal nerve; inflammation that starts from the spinal nerves and is called neuritis; damage to the intercostal nerve, for example, after trauma or surgery, infections and viruses, such as herpes zoster (shingles). Manifestations of pain: acute, sudden onset pain or constant aching.

Muscle pain. This condition may be the result of trauma, strenuous exercise, or severe repetitive coughing, for example.

Spasms in intercostal muscles. They are exactly like the muscle cramps that occur in the lower or upper limbs. As a rule, they appear suddenly and have a short duration.

Fractures to the ribs. This is a fairly common injury that consists of the destruction of one or more chest ribs. The most common causes of rib fractures are injuries sustained during sports or a car accident.

Rib crack. Doctors talk about cracked ribs or cracked ribs when one or more ribs have suffered a traumatic bruise but have not broken. A rib fracture causes pain just like a fracture, but heals in a shorter time (between 4 and 6 weeks). Failure to treat one or more cracked ribs can lead to pneumonia or lung infections.

Inflammation of costal cartilages. The most well-known inflammatory diseases of the costal cartilages are Tietze’s syndrome and osteochondrosis. Causes widespread pain.

Joint inflammation (osteoarthritis). There are joints between the ribs of the rib cartilage and the sternum that can ignite, just like any other joint in the body.

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Comment

• Elderly people are most prone to intercostal pain because they are more prone to osteoarthritis.
• People with a herniated disc. A herniated disc is one of those nerve conditions that starts at the level of the spinal cord and can affect the intercostal nerves.
• Exacerbation of osteochondrosis.
• Athletes, because they often suffer from injuries of the ribs or intercostal muscles. Smokers, because often a strong cough, can provoke or be the cause of fractures to the ribs or problems in the intercostal muscles.
• Persons suffering from chronic lung disease because it usually causes intense and frequent coughing.

Intercostal pain is a symptom reported by the patient during the physical examination and interview with the doctor. Questions are asked: What kind of pain and its intensity? When did the pain appear? Did it trigger any particular event? What movements or gestures aggravate it?

Taking into account the responses and the presence of other symptoms or signs, the doctor may prescribe instrumental methods of examination:

• Chest x-ray
• CT (Computed Axial Tomography)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Bone scan
• Electrocardiogram. Since, in fact, some intercostal pains, in place and intensity, may occur during a myocardial infarction or coronary heart disease.

Only a correct diagnosis allows the most appropriate therapy to be planned.

In the treatment of most diseases that are manifested by the manifestation of pain under the ribs, in the ribs, chest, treatment is primarily used to eliminate symptoms, including the use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

The treatment of pain in the ribs and the treatment of pain under the ribs in the Active Center begins with a visit to a neurologist or orthopedic vertebrologist. The specialist will analyze all the symptoms and refer to the appropriate diagnosis, after receiving the results, it will be possible to establish the cause of pain in the ribs and prescribe the appropriate treatment. The Active Center can help you if the cause of pain in the chest and ribs is an exacerbation of osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia, muscle pain, intercostal neuralgia, deformity of the spine and chest.