Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Published By: MediFind Medical Staff

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What causes left-sided chest pain?

Chest pain on the left side can have many possible causes. They can range from mild to life-threatening. For this reason, you should always discuss any new or worsening chest pain with your provider, and you should go to the emergency room if your pain is intense, doesn’t go away, or comes with other symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or shortness of breath. MediFind shares five common conditions that can cause left-sided chest pain below. Learn more about how MediFind works here. You can also enter your symptoms into MediFind’s Symptom Checker to receive customized results.  

Angina

Angina is a form of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. In addition to pain in the left side of the chest, symptoms may include shortness of breath, back pain, jaw pain, or arm pain. Treatment options range from medications to surgery. Cardiologists are specialists who treat angina. If you’re looking for a cardiologist nearby, you can find one here.

Gastroesophageal Reflux

Frequent or constant acid reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This can cause irritation and symptoms like heartburn and nausea. Lifestyle changes, weight management, and avoiding certain drugs can help ease symptoms. Over-the-counter antacids offer short-term relief. Prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) help longer term by reducing stomach acid. Anti-reflux surgery or endoscopic therapies are possible in persistent cases. Gastroenterologists can treat GERD. Find one nearby here.  

Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolus is a blockage of an artery in the lungs. The most common cause of the blockage is a blood clot that develops in a vein outside the lungs. Symptoms include chest pain under the breastbone or on one side. It is sharp or stabbing. Other symptoms are shortness of breath. The pain gets worse with deep breathing. A pulmonary embolus requires treatment right away. You will receive medicines to help thin the blood and make it less likely for the blood to form clots. You may need to stay in the hospital and be treated by a pulmonologist or vascular surgeon. If you’re looking for a pulmonologist nearby, you can find one here.

Musculoskeletal Disease 

Musculoskeletal diseases cover a range of conditions that affect different parts of the body. This includes diseases of the joints (e.g., arthritis), bones (e.g., osteoporosis), and muscles (e.g., sarcopenia). Pain is the most common symptom. Pain can affect one area or multiple areas of the body. Other symptoms include weakness, stiffness, difficulty moving, and fatigue. Usually, musculoskeletal pain gets better with treatment. Treating the underlying condition that causes the pain can relieve symptoms. Your doctor will review your medical history, ask questions, and do a physical exam to find the source of pain. Physicians who specialize in bone and joint disorders are called orthopedists. Find one near you here.

Panic Disorder 

Everyone feels anxious at certain times. It’s a natural response to stressful or dangerous situations. A panic attack is a brief episode of intense anxiety. Symptoms include chest pain, racing heartbeat, sweating, nausea, trembling, and a feeling of dread. Most panic attacks last between 5-20 minutes. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you have been having panic attacks. They can recommend talk therapy, medicine, or a combination of both, to help you feel better. Psychiatrists provide care for panic disorders and other mental health conditions. Find one nearby here.   

Other causes may include:  

Understanding the Results

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Differences in Age Groups

Chest pain on the left side varies depending on age group. These variations are influenced by factors such as health, lifestyle, and preexisting health conditions. Cardiac issues are more common in middle-aged to older adults compared to other age groups. 

Differences among Men and Women

Causes may differ between men and women based on anatomy, symptoms, and underlying causes.