{"id":19376,"date":"2019-10-14T00:57:58","date_gmt":"2019-10-14T00:57:58","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/besthealth.guide\/?p=19376"},"modified":"2021-10-13T06:36:18","modified_gmt":"2021-10-13T06:36:18","slug":"14-causes-of-chest-pain-on-the-left-side","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/besthealth.guide\/14-causes-of-chest-pain-on-the-left-side\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Causes of Chest Pain On The Left Side"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Chest pain can be scary. Your chest is the location of two of the most vital organs in the body, the lunch and heart. When you experience chest pain on your left side, you tend to assume it\u2019s your heart. While there are many heart conditions and problems that can cause chest pain on the left side of the body, there are many other types of injuries and conditions that can cause similar symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s always a good idea to see a doctor if you have chest pain to rule out a serious cause and to determine the best treatment or course of action to help you feel better fast. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding the possible causes of your chest pain can help you decide if you need to seek emergency medical attention or if you can wait and simply make an appointment with your primary physician. Here are some of the most common causes of chest pain on the left side of your body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Angina<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Angina <\/a>is a common cause of chest pain on the left side, but it can also be felt on the right side. Angina is not a disease, but more of a symptom of a heart problem. It occurs when the heart does not get enough oxygen and is unable to pump correctly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the cause of the angina is not found and treated, it can become a more serious issue and lead to a heart attack or another issue. People who have angina often experience sudden sharp pains in the chest. Doctors can determine the cause of angina and determine if you are at risk for a heart attack or another heart condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are treatments for angina, but those treatments depend on the cause and severity of it. Many people mistake angina for a heart attack because the sensation and pain can be the same. Any time you experience intense heart pain, you should seek medical attention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. Heart Attack<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A heart attack can cause pain on the left side of the chest as well as other parts of the body. If you are suffering from a heart attack, you are having a medical emergency and should call 911 or be driven to an emergency room as fast as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heart attacks<\/a> can be fatal, and the sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of survival and complete recovery. Heart attack pain can feel sharp and sudden. Some people experience a mild pain that grows worse or spreads over time. Not all heart attacks are big or extremely painful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always pay attention to your body and watch for other signs and symptoms of a heart attack that can confirm you are, in fact, having one. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing chest pain or symptoms of heart disease. Your doctor may be able to help reduce your risk of a heart attack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. Myocarditis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many people are not familiar with myocarditis<\/a>, but it can cause pain on the left side of your chest as well as many other symptoms. It occurs when the heart muscle becomes inflamed and cannot function properly. There are other symptoms of myocarditis that are harder to notice or recognize, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the heart is inflamed, it cannot pump blood correctly and may interfere with the body\u2019s electrical system.  If this condition is not treated, it can weaken the heart and damage it. It can make you more at risk for a heart attack and certain types of heart disease or other conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mild cases of the condition may improve on their own, but it\u2019s best to check with a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor can determine if treatment is necessary and what type of treatment is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

4. Cardiomyopathy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cardiomyopathy <\/a>is a condition that causes the heart to become enlarged. This makes it work harder and puts a bigger strain on it. Many people have this condition and don\u2019t realize it because they don\u2019t have any symptoms. Those who do have symptoms often experience pain on the left side of their chest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other symptoms are similar to symptoms of a heart attack, including dizziness, shortness of breath, and inflammation throughout the body. The condition can be treated and often requires lifelong treatment. People who have this condition should avoid fatty foods, alcohol, smoking, and other things that can aggravate it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In some cases, surgery is the only treatment option that works. If you are experiencing pain on the left side of your chest as well as any other symptoms of cardiomyopathy, you should talk to your doctor. The sooner the condition is treated, the more likely you are to make a full recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

5. Pericarditis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is another condition that occurs when the heart becomes inflamed and cannot function properly. The heart is surrounded by two thin layers of skin called the pericardium. If this skin becomes infected or inflamed, it causes pericarditis. This can cause swelling in the chest, which can lead to chest pain. The infection and swelling can also spread to other parts of the body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The added pressure around the heart makes it work harder and puts a strain on other organs in the body. If not treated, the condition can weaken the heart and cause a heart attack. People who have this condition are also more likely to suffer from heart disease <\/a>and other cardio conditions.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A doctor will determine the underlying cause of the infection or inflammation and treat it. Most people are able to take medication to help clear up the problem, but some may require surgery. This condition should not be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

6. Panic Attack<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many people don\u2019t realize that a panic attack can cause actual physical pain. When someone suffers from a panic attack, their chests can get tight, and they may struggle to breathe. It\u2019s very common to experience pain on the left side of the chest and other parts of the body. Some people mistake a panic attack for a heart attack because the symptoms can be the same. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Panic attacks<\/a> are often reoccurring, and while they are not as dangerous as a heart attack, they can still put a strain on the heart and body. A panic attack is a sign that something isn\u2019t right in the body and should be taken seriously. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doctors can determine the cause of a panic attack and help you come up with ways to handle stress, anxiety, or depression better, so you are less likely to experience them in the future. Panic attacks are common and can affect people of all ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

7. Heartburn<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Heartburn <\/a>is a common problem that most people will experience at least once in their lives. While it\u2019s not serious, it can be painful and scary. Many people confuse heartburn for a heart attack and seek medical treatment. Heartburn feels like a burning sensation around the heart. It is caused by acid reflux. When the stomach acids move backward, and up the esophagus, you can experience severe heartburn. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In most cases, heartburn only lasts for a short time, but some people can deal with it for days. Many people also have it often. Drinking milk, taking medications, and standing while eating or shortly after eating can help prevent heartburn. If you have reoccurring heartburn, talk to your doctor to see if there is a medical reason for it and to learn about your treatment options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pregnant women often experience more serious bouts of heartburn as well as more severe symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

8. Pleurisy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pleurisy <\/a>is a condition that affects the lining of the lungs. When that lining becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause pain on the left side of the chest. Some people also experience pain on the right side of the chest and on their backs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The pain usually becomes more severe when a person tries to take deep breaths, and some people are unable to do so. The pain also becomes worse if you laugh, run, move around, eat, cough, or sneeze. The infection that causes the condition should be treated before it spreads to other parts of the body. Some people mistake the symptoms of pleurisy for a heart attack or another heart condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the pain can be severe, once treated, pleurisy should clear up quickly. If left untreated, the infection could spread to the lungs or other parts of the body and cause further complications and pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

9. Injury<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are active, play a sport, or work a job that is physically demanding, you may injure your chest and suffer from pain. Some people are very aware of their injuries, and others brush them off at the time and forget about them. The area of the chest is very sensitive, and a hit or injury to the area can cause severe pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Usually, the pain is to the soft tissue and not serious. Injuries that are too hard or sever can cause bruising and even damage to the rib. The injury can make it hard to breathe properly, sleep, eat, and even move. Some people are not able to go back to work or continue to participate in sports due to the severity of a chest injury. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have been injured and are experiencing pain on the left side of your chest, see your doctor to determine the severity of the injury. X-rays <\/a>may reveal something more serious than expected and can help your doctor determine the right treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

10. Muscle Cramps<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You have muscles all over your body, even your chest. If you are experiencing pain on the left side of your chest, it could be something as simple as a muscle cramp<\/a>. You can get muscle cramps for many reasons. Sometimes if you sit a certain way for too long, your body will cramp, and it will be hard to move. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This can feel like it\u2019s in your heart when it\u2019s really just a muscle. Other things that can cause cramps are dehydration and a lack of certain nutrients. If you suffer from cramping often, make sure you are drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet. Pay attention to your posture, and watch how you move around or sleep at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are worried that the cramping could be a sign of something more serious or may have an underlying cause, talk to your doctor to learn about your treatment options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

11. Pneumonia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you have pneumonia<\/a>, you could experience pain in your chest on either side. Some people find it hard to determine which side because the pressure and pain are so intense. When you have pneumonia, your lungs fill up with fluid. This can make it hard to breathe. You may experience the pain when you try to take a deep breath, or it may be present at all times. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some people find that their pain is worse at night, when they lie down, sit in a certain position, or wake up in the morning. Moving around can help break up the fluid and congestion in the chest. Pneumonia can be dangerous and should be treated. There are often other symptoms present aside from chest pain, including a cough, headache, fever, and body aches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you think you may have pneumonia, you should seek medical attention quickly. You may need an antibiotic, and some people require hospitalization to treat the problem completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

12. Torn Muscle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you work out or participate in sport and exercise, you are at risk for a muscle injury. If you lift weights or do any type of heavy lifting at work, you could tear a muscle in your chest. This can be very painful, and it can be hard to differentiate between muscle pain and other types of chest pain<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Muscle tears require rest to heal properly. If you don\u2019t realize you have torn your muscle and aren\u2019t\u2019 resting, you could be making it worse. If you are experience pain on the left side of your chest and it feels tender to touch or hurts worse if you move into certain positions, it may be a torn muscle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try not to use the muscle or talk to a doctor about ways you can help it heal faster. Drink plenty of water and take a break from sports and activities until the muscle tear has time to heal and is no longer painful<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

13. Anemia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many people suffer from anemia<\/a>. When your blood can\u2019t carry enough oxygen around your body, you are considered anemic. Anemia has many symptoms, and pain on the left side of the chest is one of them. Some others include fatigue, weakness, paleness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are different types of nausea, but the most common is caused by a lack of iron. The body either doesn\u2019t get enough iron or can\u2019t break it down properly. Many people who are anemic find relief by taking iron supplements. Others have to have injections, and some require a blood transfusion. Anemia can be dangerous if it becomes severe, and it\u2019s important to know the reason for anemia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you think you may be anemic, talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause, and find the right treatment. Some people suffer from chronic anemia, and others just experience occasionally and are able to overcome it with a proper diet and vitamin supplements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

14. Excessive Coughing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are coughing <\/a>frequently, it takes a toll on your body. I can cause pain in your chest and lungs. Coughs can be caused by a variety of things, including a cold, the flu, pneumonia, allergies, and even things as serious as lung cancer and tuberculosis. If you are coughing so much or so hard that it is making your chest hurt, there could be a serious problem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a good idea to seek medical attention to determine the cause of the cough. Once the underlying cause is found and treated, the cough should clear up within a few days. This will allow your chest and lungs to rest and should help take away the pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the cough or pain doesn\u2019t go away after a reasonable amount of time, talk to your doctor to find out if there is a more serious underlying cause, they may be responsible for either symptom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n

<\/div>