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[23F] Experiencing sharp chest pain

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female reports experiencing sharp pain under the left breast for over an hour. The pain fluctuates between a 2 and 7 on a scale of 1 to 10 and worsens with breathing in, stretching, and changing position. Accompanying symptoms include mild pain in the shoulder and base of the neck. The pain onset was sudden, with no prior injuries or similar episodes of this severity. The patient has not attempted any treatments or medications. There is no tenderness upon palpation of the area, and the patient is unsure about experiencing shortness of breath. There are no recent coughs, fevers, or respiratory infections. The patient has no personal history of heart disease but reports a paternal history of heart disease. There have been no episodes of dizziness or fainting, and no prior diagnostic tests like ECG or chest X-ray have been conducted for similar symptoms. The patient has no pre-existing conditions and is not on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:

  • Musculoskeletal Pain: This could be due to a strain or inflammation in the muscles or ribs, especially since it worsens with movement and breathing. It’s common and often related to posture or minor injuries.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and applying heat or ice.

  • Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting a rib to the breastbone, causing sharp pain that worsens with breathing or movement.

    • Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications and rest.

  • Pleurisy: Inflammation of the lining around the lungs, which can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing.

    • Treatment may involve addressing the underlying cause, such as an infection, and using pain relief.

Given your family history of heart disease, it's important to consider cardiac causes, although your symptoms are less typical for this.

What you can do

  • Rest and Relaxation: Avoid activities that worsen the pain. Gentle stretching might help, but avoid anything that increases discomfort.
  • Pain Relief: Consider over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain.
  • Heat or Ice: Apply a warm compress or ice pack to the area to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track any changes, and share this information with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening pain
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Pain spreading to your arm, neck, or jaw

Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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6 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are common causes of sharp pain under the breast that worsens with movement?

Common causes of sharp pain under the breast that worsens with movement include musculoskeletal pain, costochondritis, and pleurisy. These conditions often involve inflammation or strain in the muscles, ribs, or the lining around the lungs.

How can I differentiate between musculoskeletal pain and more serious conditions like heart problems?

Musculoskeletal pain often worsens with movement, breathing, or changing positions and may not be associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness. Heart-related pain might be more constant, could radiate to other areas like the arm or jaw, and might be accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath or fainting. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What are some effective home remedies for managing chest pain due to costochondritis?

Effective home remedies for managing chest pain due to costochondritis include rest, avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and applying heat or ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation.

When should I seek medical attention for chest pain?

You should seek medical attention for chest pain if you experience severe or worsening pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or if the pain spreads to your arm, neck, or jaw. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate medical evaluation.

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