[27F] Experiencing sharp chest pain radiating to left shoulder

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Musculoskeletal pain: This is a common cause of chest pain and can be caused by strain or inflammation of the muscles and tendons between the ribs. This type of pain can often be felt in the shoulder and can be affected by body position.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy exercises.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause chest pain.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or surgery.

• Heart conditions: Given your family history of heart disease, conditions such as angina or a heart attack could potentially be causing your symptoms. These conditions typically cause chest pain that may radiate to the arm or shoulder, and may be associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness.

  • Treatment for heart conditions can vary widely depending on the specific condition and its severity, but may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical procedures.

What you can do

Given the potential seriousness of some of these conditions, particularly those related to the heart, it's important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare professional will be able to evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary tests, and determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

In the meantime, try to rest and avoid any activities that seem to worsen your symptoms. If your pain is severe or if you experience any additional symptoms such as difficulty breathing, call for emergency medical help immediately.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Severe chest pain
• Chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
• Chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
• Sudden sharp chest pain with shortness of breath, especially if you have been inactive or are under a lot of stress
• New, unexplained chest pain

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment. This advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always seek the advice of a healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding your medical condition.