[41F] With sharp, stabbing left lung pain and shortness of breath

Patient Description

A 41-year-old female reports experiencing extreme sharp and stabbing pain in the left lung, which worsens with deep breaths and certain movements such as shifting the body or turning. The pain began gradually worsening since yesterday evening and became severe last night, rated 7 to 8 out of 10 in severity. The patient also reports experiencing shortness of breath since the pain became severe. There is no history of recent injuries to the chest or back, and no diagnosed respiratory infections or illnesses prior to the onset of pain. The patient had a slight sore throat and pain in the left ear earlier in the week.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): This occurs when air leaks into the space between your lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. Symptoms include sudden sharp chest pain and shortness of breath. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

  2. Pulmonary Embolism: This is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs, usually caused by blood clots that travel to your lungs from your legs. Symptoms include sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, and sometimes coughing up blood. This is a medical emergency.

  3. Pleurisy: This is inflammation of the tissues that line your lungs and chest cavity. It can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or movement. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as an infection or other inflammatory condition.

  4. Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. It can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with movement. While not usually life-threatening, it can be very painful and may require medical treatment.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Go to the Emergency Room: Due to the potential seriousness of your condition, you should visit the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. If you are unable to get there yourself, call an ambulance.

  2. Call 911: If your pain worsens, you feel light-headed, or your shortness of breath becomes severe, call 911 immediately.

  3. Avoid Strenuous Activity: Until you receive medical attention, try to avoid any activities that could exacerbate your symptoms.

  4. Stay Calm: Try to remain as calm as possible to avoid increasing your heart rate and worsening your symptoms.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is essential to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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3 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the symptoms of a pneumothorax and how is it treated?

Symptoms of a pneumothorax include sudden sharp chest pain and shortness of breath. Treatment often involves inserting a needle or chest tube to remove excess air, allowing the lung to re-expand. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

How can you differentiate between pleurisy and other causes of chest pain?

Pleurisy typically causes sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or movement. It can be differentiated from other causes by a healthcare provider through physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes blood tests to identify underlying causes like infections.

What are the risk factors for developing a pulmonary embolism?

Risk factors for pulmonary embolism include prolonged immobility, surgery, certain medical conditions like cancer, smoking, obesity, and a history of blood clots. It is important to seek medical evaluation if you suspect a pulmonary embolism.

What is costochondritis and how is it managed?

Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage connecting a rib to the breastbone, causing sharp chest pain. Management includes pain relief with medications like NSAIDs, rest, and avoiding activities that worsen the pain. It usually resolves on its own over time.

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