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Pain Under Left Breast: 10 Potential Causes And When To See A Doctor, According To Experts

Feeling pain under your left breast can be especially worrying. After all, important organs and structures sit on that side of the body, like your heart, left lung, stomach, spleen, oesophagus, ribs, and more. So, what happens if suddenly, you feel pain in that area? Is it necessarily a cause for concern?

First, don't panic. It's important to consider different factors before jumping to conclusions, says Dr Samantha Nazareth. For example, how old are you? What you were doing when the pain began? What is your pain severity? You should also consider what your medical history entails, what medications you're on, and if you have any other symptoms along with the pain, Dr Nazareth says.

In some cases, pain under your left breast could be totally harmless, but other times, it might signal an underlying medical issue. Here are 10 possible reasons you might be experiencing pain under your left breast, according to doctors—and when to seek help.

Meet the experts: Dr Samantha Nazareth, is a gastroenterologist based in New York City. Dr Jayne Morgan, MD, is a cardiologist and the Covid Task Force Clinical Director at the Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta.

What causes pain under your left breast? 1. Muscle soreness

Experiencing slight physical discomfort is normal after an intense workout – it just means you committed (perhaps a little too hard). If you feel pain under your left breast after a chest-activating workout, like a bench or dumbbell press, there's a good chance your muscles are sore. The area might be tender to the touch, and the pain might feel dull, tight, or achy for a few days, Dr Nazareth says.

Soreness should go away within a few days to weeks. Resting and applying hot or cold therapy to the area can help, Dr Nazareth says. Put crushed ice in a bag or use a hot compress or heating pad and leave it on the affected area for up to 20 minutes for two days after the injury, and repeat every two hours if you need extra relief. An over-the-counter cream or gel with pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects can also help, Dr. Nazareth says. Capsaicin, salicylate cream, or gel—which can be used three to four times a day—might do the trick.

2. Acid reflux

You know that super uncomfortable squeezing or burning sensation in your left and centre chest? That's acid reflux, and it happens when acid flows from the stomach back into the oesophagus, or food pipe, Dr. Nazareth says. Acid reflux can make you feel nauseous, develop a cough, or experience a sour or bitter taste in your mouth. It typically occurs after meals, when you're stressed, and can feel exacerbated when you're lying down. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours, Dr Nazareth adds.

Taking an over-the-counter antacid can help you resolve the issue. Diet changes can also help – like not eating three hours before bedtime and avoiding foods that can make reflux worse –like coffee or caffeinated foods, spicy foods, chocolate, alcohol, peppermint, and fatty foods. Quitting smoking also helps with reflux, says Dr Jayne Morga, a cardiologist and the clinical director of the Covid Task Force at the Piedmont Healthcare Corporation.

Related Stories 3. Costochondritis

Costochondritis occurs when you have inflammation in the cartilage that joins your ribs to the breastbone (an area is known as the costochondral joint). The pain, which usually affects the lower ribcage, might feel dull and gnawing, and it'll become more intense if you touch the area, take a deep breath, or cough. It may start on the left side of your chest and spread slowly throughout the rest, per Cleveland Clinic.

It's not totally clear why some people develop this condition, however, 'for some, it might be caused by trauma, heavy lifting, hard exercise, or an illness,' Dr. Nazareth says. The pain typically settles on its own, but if you have costochondritis, you should avoid lifting or pushing heavy things for a few weeks. In the meantime, you can do some stretches to relieve the pain, like the doorway stretch and sphinx pose, and you can also use a heating pad on the area.

Related Stories 4. Tietze syndrome

This condition is often confused with costochondritis because it's also identified by inflammation in the costochondral joint. They share almost identical symptoms, but the pain caused by Tietze syndrome is usually felt closer to the shoulder and affects the upper ribcage, per Cleveland Clinic. You'll also notice chest swelling, which is absent in costochondritis.

Depending on which ribs are affected, you might experience pain when you move or twist your upper body or feel uncomfortable when sitting or lying down in certain positions. Coughing, sneezing, and vomiting may also be more painful than usual.

No one really knows what causes this condition – some believe it's due to small traumas in the chest like straining during exercises, a respiratory infection, or coughing fits, Dr. Morgan says. Tietze syndrome can be treated with rest and OTC anti-inflammatory medications, and it'll usually resolve fully in one to two weeks, she adds.

Kinga Krzeminska//Getty Images

5. Pleurisy

If you feel sharp, stabbing chest or shoulder pain when breathing in deeply, there's a chance it could be a result of pleurisy, which is inflammation of the lining of your lungs (pleura). This occurs when inflammation in your lungs moves into the pleurae and causes them to swell up and rub against each other, per Cleveland Clinic. The pain can accompany a viral infection or result from a chest injury or pneumonia, in which case you would also have a fever and cough, Dr Nazareth says.

If you have untreated pneumonia, there's a chance that bacteria from an infection can enter the bloodstream and affect your other organs, so see a doctor ASAP. If the pleurisy is caused by a virus, it might take a couple of days for the pain to go away. But if it's bacterial pneumonia, the pain will most likely persist until it's treated, Dr Nazareth says.

6. Hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia – a rarer cause of pain under your left breast—is when your upper stomach bulges through the diaphragm, which separates your abdomen and chest, per Mayo Clinic. The painful sensation might feel like a pulling or tearing from the diaphragm right below the left breast, Dr Nazareth says.

You might feel this pain when you have increased intra-abdominal pressure, like when lifting weights, groceries, or other heavy objects. It usually lasts as long as you're doing the movement that is causing the pain. Small hiatal hernias won't cause any other symptoms, but larger ones could come with heartburn, acid reflux, shortness of breath, feeling full soon after you eat, vomiting blood, and black stools. Talk to your doc if you think you have a hiatal hernia because it generally requires surgical repair, Dr Morgan says.

7. Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the outer lining of the heart, also called the pericardium, Dr. Morgan says. When the swollen and irritated layers of the pericardium rub against each other, chest pain occurs. The duration varies depending on which of the four types of pericarditis you have, and symptoms can include a cough, fatigue, leg swelling, low-grade fever, a racing heart, shortness of breath while lying down, and swelling in your stomach.

Symptoms of pericarditis can overlap with those of other heart and lung conditions, so always consult your doctor if you notice sudden chest pain.

8. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot in the lung. It's most common in people who have had a recent surgery, have been on bed rest or sitting for a long time, like on a flight, or have been pregnant, Dr. Nazareth says. The type of pain varies, but it's usually sharp and stabbing, and comes on suddenly, she says, adding that it gets worse with deep breaths.

The pain might be accompanied by dizziness, fast breathing, shortness of breath, a fast heart rate, coughing (maybe even coughing up blood), and anxiety. A pulmonary embolism can also cause a blood clot in the leg, making it swollen, red, and painful. This disease is potentially life-threatening, so you should book an appointment with your doctor right away if you suspect you have PE.

9. Angina

Angina refers to 'pain in the chest or behind the left breast caused by blocked arteries,' Dr. Morgan says. 'Angina could be a warning sign of a heart attack.' It generally affects those who have a blockage in their coronary arteries, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to the heart.

You may experience burning, squeezing, dull pain, tightness and pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, and pain going up your left arm, jaw, or back. Physical exertion can cause angina, but it can also stick around even after you cease activity. Regardless of how long it lasts, seek medical attention immediately if you think your discomfort is angina-related, given that it could signal a heart attack.

10. Heart attack

Pain under your left breast doesn't necessarily mean you're having a heart attack, but in some severe cases, it may. If you feel what you would describe as 'new' chest pain, involving pressure or discomfort that worsens with activity, there's a concern that it could be a heart attack, Dr. Nazareth says. You may also feel the same aching in your shoulder, arms, back, neck, and jaw.

Heart attack symptoms can also include trouble breathing and feeling nauseous, sweaty, or lightheaded. The pain may last for more than a few minutes or go away and return, per the CDC. These signs should prompt you to call 999.

When to see a doctor

If your symptoms aren't very severe (think: mild discomfort or occasional twinges of pain), schedule an appointment with your GP within a few days to a week, Dr Nazareth says. But if your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or radiating pain to the arm, jaw, or back, seek medical attention ASAP.

'If the pain is sudden and severe or persists for more than a few minutes, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately,' Dr Nazareth says.

During the appointment, you can expect a medical history questionnaire and a thorough physical examination. 'Your physician may ask questions about the nature and duration of the pain, any exacerbating or alleviating factors, associated symptoms, medical history (including any history of heart disease, gastrointestinal issues, or musculoskeletal problems), medications, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress levels,' Dr Nazareth says.

Depending on the results of the clinical assessment, your doctor may also order diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to assess heart function, imagine studies such as a chest X-ray, an ultrasound with a mammogram, or blood tests to check for markers of inflammation, infection, or cardiac enzymes, according to Dr Nazareth. You may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation and management.

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Causes Of Rib Cage Pain And What To Do About It

Rib cage pain is a common complaint that can have many causes, ranging from a fractured rib to lung cancer. The pain may be sudden and sharp or dull and aching.

Many cases of rib cage pain are not linked to serious conditions and resolve on their own or with minimal treatment. Others, however, are medical emergencies requiring immediate intervention.

People should pay attention to their symptoms and speak with a doctor for a diagnosis of rib pain.

There are many possible causes of rib cage pain, including the following:

1. Injury

Injury to the chest from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact is a common cause of rib cage pain. Types of injury include:

Doctors may use an X-ray to highlight bone breaks and fractures if rib cage pain begins after an injury. MRIs and other scans can detect soft tissue damage.

2. Costochondritis

This condition involves inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage that joins the upper ribs to the sternum, an area called the costosternal joint.

Rib cage pain due to costochondritis ranges from mild to severe and may feel sharp or dull and worsen with movement, such as deep breathing, coughing, or stretching.

Some cases of costochondritis resolve without treatment, while others require medical intervention.

3. Infection

The pain may be due to the infection itself, a pulled rib muscle from coughing, or pleurisy. Pleurisy occurs when the pleura, the tissue between the lungs and the rib cage, becomes inflamed.

Other causes of pleurisy include autoimmune disorders and certain medications.

4. Lung cancer

Lung cancer may cause rib cage pain or chest pain that worsens when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms may include:

The outlook for lung cancer is less favorable than other forms of cancer, and it is the leading cause of cancer death among males and females in the United States.

People with early stage lung cancer have a better chance of survival, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that begins in one area and spreads to the lungs, can be life threatening. It can also cause pain in the rib cage or chest.

5. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain throughout the body. The American College of Rheumatology estimates that it affects 2% to 4% of people and is more common in females.

Fibromyalgia pain may be burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching. These pains commonly occur in the chest, but can affect any body part.

6. Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism is when something blocks an artery going into the lungs. The blockage is often due to a blood clot that travels up from one of the legs.

As well as rib cage pain, a pulmonary embolism may cause the following symptoms:

Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who experiences the symptoms should see a doctor.

According to the American Lung Association, 10% to 30% of people who develop pulmonary embolism die within 1 month of diagnosis. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

Rib cage pain may occur in the chest, below the ribs, or above the navel. As there are various potential causes of rib cage pain, symptoms can vary. Pain may be:

sharp

dull

aching

sudden

slow to develop

constant

intermittent

worse when breathing in or moving

People may also experience other symptoms, such as bruising or tenderness of the ribs or difficulty breathing.

People should pay attention to their symptoms, as these can help a doctor with their diagnosis.

The rib cage typically consists of 24 ribs, 12 on either side, and shields the chest organs, including the heart and the lungs, from damage.

The ribs are attached to the breastbone, which is the long bone that runs down the center of the chest. They are attached at the front, by cartilage. At the back, they are attached to the spine.

Rib bones protect the liver, which is at the lower end of the rib cage on the right, and the spleen, which is on the left. The gallbladder and kidneys lie just below the rib cage.

If injury or illness affects any part of the rib cage, including the bones or cartilage or the organs nearby, people may experience pain in or near the rib cage.

What causes pain on the right side of the rib cage?

There are many potential reasons why the right side of a person's rib cage is hurting. Often, this is due to an injury to the chest area. Other causes include costochondritis and fibromyalgia.

People should contact a doctor for a diagnosis if they experience persistent or severe pain in the right side of their rib cage.

What causes rib pain without injury?

Some causes of rib pain that are not a result of injury include costochondritis, infection, lung cancer, fibromyalgia, and pulmonary embolism.

These conditions may also cause other symptoms. People should speak with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

When should someone be concerned about rib pain?

There are many potential causes of rib pain. People should contact a doctor if the pain worsens or does not resolve.

People should contact the emergency services if the rib pain is severe and accompanies other symptoms, such as shortness of breath.

What can mimic rib pain?

A person may mistake other conditions for rib pain. For example, a condition affecting the heart or lungs may cause referred pain in the ribs. However, there could also be less severe causes, such as indigestion.

To get an accurate diagnosis, a person should contact a doctor if they experience rib pain.

There are various potential causes of rib cage pain, many of which are not linked to serious conditions and resolve on their own. However, other cases may require medical treatment and long-term care.

The cause of the rib pain may be a disease or condition not included in the list above. It helps to be vigilant for other symptoms that accompany the rib cage pain and to report these to a doctor.

A doctor may use a physical exam or imaging tests to diagnose the underlying cause of rib pain.

Mum Was 'minutes From Death' After Chest Pain Turned Out To Be Flesh-eating Bug

Sam Lewis is treated in hospital for necrotising pancreatitis (Image: SWNS)

A mum was "minutes away from death" and had to learn to walk again after her chest pains turned out to be a flesh-eating bug ravaging her pancreas. Sam Lewis, 38, had been to the doctors three times with a pain in her chest before doctors found a gallstone blocking her bile duct.

After being hospitalised, Sam's health quickly declined and she was diagnosed with pancreatitis which became necrotising. The mum-of-three spent six months in hospital and had to have half her pancreas cut away to save her life.

Now Sam has to eat a strict low fat carb diet to avoid inflammation in her pancreas - meaning she can no longer have a fry up. Sam, a children's entertainer, from Bournemouth, Dorset, said: "At one point I was minutes away from death. Pancreatitis is evil and it can take you. It's hard pill to swallow."

Sam first started getting chest pains in 2021 while getting her children ready for the school run. She went to hospital but was told she had costochondritis - an inflammation of the breastbone - and sent home with painkillers. Sam got a similar pain again in March 2022 but after going to the doctors she claims her symptoms were "shrugged off" for long Covid.

She had to learn to walk again (Image: SWNS)

But later that month the pain came back again so Sam went to hospital and was taken for a CT scan which revealed a gallstone blocking her bile duct. This had caused pancreatitis - where the pancreas becomes inflamed. Sam said: "They said we believe you have acute pancreatitis."

Her condition rapidly deteriorated overnight, with her body swelling up and her gallstone attacking her pancreas, leaving her barely able to move and struggling to breathe. She recalled: "They said 'we're going to put you on a low fat diet and you'll be fine'. It went from acute to necrotising overnight.

"My whole body swelled up.My gallstone was attacking my pancreas. I looked so swollen I looked like I was eight months pregnant. I couldn't move my ankles."

As her condition worsened, Sam was transferred to intensive care, where her family were warned that she might not survive. She said: "My family came in. It was heart-wrenching. I couldn't breathe properly."

After being hospitalised, Sam's health quickly declined (Image: SWNS)

Despite the odds, Sam pulled through, but her ordeal was far from over. After two months in hospital, she developed sepsis and was rushed to Southampton Hospital, where doctors were forced to put her in an induced coma and operate to remove dead tissue and half of her pancreas.

When Sam finally woke up, she was left with a drainage bag and an NG feeding tube, and was unable to walk. She spent a month in Southampton Hospital before being transferred back to Bournemouth Hospital for another month.

It wasn't until August 2022 that Sam was finally able to return home. However, her health issues have left her with chronic pancreatitis, a condition where the pancreas is permanently damaged by inflammation.

As a result, Sam has to follow a very strict diet, cutting out foods she loves, such as fry-ups and pastries, and sticking to a low-fat, low-carb regime to avoid flare-ups that could land her back in hospital. She said: "It's something I have to live with. I used to love my food. I used to love going out. Now I refrain from going anywhere in case I get a flare up. I can't even have crisps, chocolate, fish and chips. I can't have fast food. I can't even pop to the bakery."

Now Sam has to eat a strict low fat carb diet (Image: SWNS)

It took her a year to regain her ability to walk properly, and Sam has yet to return to work. Sam is hopeful that she can "indulge" a bit this Christmas - but fears she'll end up in hospital with an inflammation flare-up. She expressed: "This year I'm really excited for Christmas. I'm ready to really enjoy it."

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