[20M] Experiencing sharp, localized chest pain when breathing deeply

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

• Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. The condition usually affects the cartilage where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone, or sternum, an area known as the costosternal joint. Costochondritis causes chest pain that can be reproduced by pressing on the area of the chest wall. However, you mentioned that pressing on the area does not cause pain, so this might not be the cause.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and rest.

• Pleurisy: This is an inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity. The pain often worsens with the motion of your lungs when you inhale or exhale.

  • Treatment for pleurisy involves pain control and treating the underlying condition, if it's found.

• Musculoskeletal Strain: This is when muscles or tendons in the chest wall get strained or pulled. This can happen from physical activities.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, heat or cold to the affected area, and pain relievers.

• Smoking-related lung disease: Regular smoking can cause a variety of lung conditions, some of which can cause chest pain. However, at your age and without other symptoms, this is less likely but still possible.

  • The treatment for this is to quit smoking and manage the symptoms.

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor, so these are just possibilities based on the information you've provided. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some things you can do to manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and avoid physical activities that might worsen your chest pain.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help, but always use them as directed on the package.
3. If you're a smoker, consider quitting. Smoking can lead to a variety of health problems, including those that cause chest pain.
4. Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or don't improve.

What you should look out for

Here are some signs that you should seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe chest pain
• Chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
• Chest pain that gets worse over time
• Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
• Chest pain accompanied by a feeling of tightness or pressure in your chest

Again, I recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional about your symptoms.