Why Does The Left Side Of My Chest Feel Like Its Burning?

Introduction:

A burning sensation in the left chest can be alarming, but it doesn’t necessarily signal a heart attack. Several factors, ranging from indigestion to muscle strain, can trigger this discomfort. Let’s delve into the potential causes and when to seek professional help.

Common Causes Of Left Chest Burning

• Heartburn (GERD):

  Often the culprit, heartburn results from stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling in the chest and throat [1]. Spicy foods, alcohol, and certain medications can aggravate it.

 

• Muscle Strain Or Costochondritis:

  Inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone can mimic heart-related pain. It often worsens with deep breaths or chest movements [2].

• Anxiety Or Panic Attack:

  Anxiety attacks can trigger a burning chest pain along with shortness of breath, sweating, and dizziness [3].

• Esophageal Spasm:

  Involuntary contractions of the esophagus can cause a squeezing or burning sensation in the chest, often mistaken for heartburn [4].

• Pleurisy:

  Inflammation of the pleura, the lining surrounding your lungs, can cause sharp chest pain, especially when taking a deep breath or coughing [5].

Less Common Causes Of Left Chest Burning

• Pericarditis:

  Inflammation of the pericardium, the sac enclosing your heart, can cause sharp or stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or lying down [6].

• Pneumonia:

  Inflammation of the lungs can cause chest pain, along with fever, cough, and shortness of breath [7].

• Hiatal Hernia:

  Part of your stomach pushes through a weakened diaphragm, causing heartburn-like symptoms [8].

• Aortic Dissection:

  A tear in the aorta, the main artery leaving the heart, is a life-threatening emergency causing severe chest pain that may radiate to the back [9].

Additional Tips

• Pay Attention To Accompanying Symptoms:

  Shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or radiating pain can indicate a more serious condition.

• Maintain A Food Diary:

  Identify foods or drinks that trigger heartburn.

• Practice Relaxation Techniques:

  Techniques like deep breathing can help manage anxiety-related chest pain.

• Don’t Ignore Persistent Pain:

  If the burning sensation worsens or doesn’t improve with home remedies, seek medical attention.

FAQs

• Can Stress Cause Burning Chest Pain?

  Chronic stress can exacerbate heartburn or contribute to anxiety-related chest pain.

• Should I Go To The ER For Left Chest Pain?

  Seek emergency care for sudden, severe chest pain, radiating pain, shortness of breath, or sweating.

• What Medications Can Cause Chest Pain?

  Certain medications, like blood thinners, can have chest pain as a side effect. Consult your doctor if you suspect this.

• What Tests Can Diagnose The Cause Of Chest Pain?

  Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend an EKG, chest X-ray, or CT scan.

• How Can I Prevent Burning Chest Pain?

  Manage stress, avoid trigger foods, and maintain a healthy weight to minimize heartburn.

Conclusion

A burning chest can arise from various causes, most treatable. However, it’s crucial to recognize warning signs of a heart attack or other emergencies. If unsure, don’t hesitate to seek medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

References

• [1] Acid Reflux (GERD) – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
• [2] Costochondritis – Mayo Clinic
• [3] Anxiety Disorders – National Institute of Mental Health
• [4] Esophageal Spasm – International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders
• [5] Pleurisy – Mayo Clinic
• [6] Pericarditis – Mayo Clinic
• [7] Pneumonia – Mayo Clinic
• [8] Hiatal Hernia – Mayo Clinic
• [9] Aortic Dissection – Mayo Clinic