Health 23/03/2026 14:52

Feeling Pain on the Left Side of Your Chest? Know When to Worry

Left Chest Pain Explained: Harmless or a Medical Emergency?

Chest Pain That Comes and Goes: Possible Causes

Chest pain can be concerning, especially when it comes and goes. It can have many causes — some serious, others less so — but it should always be taken seriously.

Chest pain doesn’t only come from the heart. It may also be related to the lungs, digestive system, or muscles.


Common Causes


Heart-related:

  • Heart attack: Caused by blocked blood flow to the heart; pain may be sudden or mild.
  • Angina: Occurs when the heart doesn’t get enough blood, often during physical activity.
  • Pericarditis: Inflammation around the heart, causing sharp pain that may worsen when lying down or breathing deeply.

Digestive causes:

  • GERD (acid reflux): Causes a burning sensation, often worse after eating or lying down.
  • Stomach ulcers: Pain between the chest and abdomen, sometimes relieved after eating.

Muscle or injury:


  • Muscle strain or rib injury can cause pain that worsens with movement or stretching.

Lung-related:

  • Pneumonia or pleurisy: Pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.
  • Pulmonary embolism: A serious condition with chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate.

Other causes:

  • Gallstones: Pain in the upper abdomen that may spread to the chest.
  • Panic attacks: Can cause chest pain similar to a heart attack.
  • Costochondritis: Inflammation of rib cartilage, causing pain near the breastbone.
  • Lung cancer: May cause persistent chest pain along with cough or weight loss.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Seek emergency help if chest pain occurs with:

  • Pain spreading to arms, neck, or back
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold sweats
  • Nausea or dizziness

Diagnosis

Doctors may use:

  • Medical history and physical exam
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging (X-ray, CT scan)
  • ECG (heart test)


When to See a Doctor

Get immediate medical help if:

  • Chest pain is severe or unexplained
  • You suspect a heart attack

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