Pain below the left breast can be caused by various conditions, ranging from muscle strain and indigestion to more serious issues like heart or lung problems. It may feel sharp, dull, or burning and could worsen with movement, breathing, or after eating.
While digestive issues like acid reflux or gas are common culprits, studies show that up to 30% of chest pain cases in emergency rooms are linked to gastrointestinal causes rather than the heart.
However, pain in this area can also signal heart-related conditions, especially in women, where symptoms of a heart attack may be more subtle. Research indicates that women are 50% more likely than men to experience atypical heart attack symptoms, including discomfort below the breast.
This article covers common causes like heart issues, digestive problems and injuries, so you can understand the symptoms and what to do next.
Heart Related Causes of Pain Below the Left Breast
Pain under the left breast sends alarm bells because of its proximity to the heart. The heart is slightly left of the midline of the body and can be the source of many types of chest pain.
When chest pain occurs it may sometimes radiate to the jaw, arm or back and can be accompanied by nausea, sweating or feeling faint, all of which require immediate medical attention. Persistent chest pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over the counter meds should prompt a doctor’s visit.
Heart related issues like angina, pericarditis and heart attacks are critical causes to consider. These conditions can manifest in different symptoms from mild to severe.
Heart related pain should never be ignored.
Angina
Angina occurs when your heart doesn’t receive enough oxygen due to reduced blood flow. It can feel like a burning, squeezing, or sharp pain beneath your left breast, often mistaken for a heart attack. You may also experience chest tightness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Identifying angina early and following medical guidance can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Pericarditis
Pericarditis is inflammation of the protective sac surrounding your heart. It causes sharp, stabbing pain that worsens when you take deep breaths or lie down. The irritated layers of the pericardium rub together, intensifying discomfort. In some cases, pericarditis leads to fluid buildup around the heart, making breathing difficult.
Doctors often recommend anti-inflammatory medications and rest to relieve symptoms. Severe cases may require steroids or hospital treatment. Any sudden or persistent chest pain should be checked by a doctor immediately to rule out life-threatening conditions.
Heart Attack
A heart attack is a life threatening condition where the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked often by an artery blockage.
Common symptoms are:
- chest pain
- shoulder pain
- upper arm pain
- back pain
- neck pain
- jaw pain
- difficulty breathing
- nausea
- sweating
- lightheadedness
- other symptoms
If you experience these symptoms you need to get medical help immediately.
During a heart attack the pain can be severe and can feel like a sharp or stabbing pain beneath the left breast that worsens with deep breathing. The pain may radiate to other parts of the body and is a sign to get medical help immediately.
If you suspect a heart attack you need to seek immediate medical intervention. Quick medical intervention can minimize heart muscle damage and improve survival rates.
Digestive System Issues
Your stomach and esophagus sit near your heart, meaning digestive issues can trigger pain below your left breast. Two common culprits are acid reflux and gastritis, both of which can mimic heart-related discomfort.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest.
This pain is often felt behind your left breastbone, especially after eating or lying down. Foods like coffee, spicy dishes, and chocolate can worsen symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding late-night meals, reducing trigger foods, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage acid reflux.
Gastritis
Gastritis occurs when the stomach lining becomes inflamed, leading to sharp, burning pain under the left breast.
This condition can result from bacterial infections, excessive alcohol use, prolonged NSAID use, or stress. Symptoms may include nausea, bloating, and indigestion.
Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory conditions can also cause pain below the left breast. Lung related issues such as pleurisy and pulmonary embolism can cause significant discomfort and are serious health threats.
Let’s look into two major respiratory conditions that can cause pain below the left breast.
Pleurisy
Pleurisy is the inflammation of the lung tissues, causing sharp pain during deep breathing, sneezing or coughing. The pain worsens with breathing and can be aggravated by walking, coughing or sneezing.
Suspected pleurisy may require further tests to confirm diagnosis and determine treatment such as antibiotics for bacterial pleurisy.
Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism is a life threatening condition caused by a blood clot in the lung. Symptoms are sudden chest pain that mimics a heart attack, dizziness, fast breathing, shortness of breath and anxiety.
Pulmonary embolism often requires immediate medical intervention due to rapid progression and potential complications.
Musculoskeletal Problems
Pain below your left breast isn’t always related to your heart or lungs. Sometimes, it stems from muscle or rib issues due to strain or inflammation.
Costochondritis
Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to your sternum. It causes sharp, localized chest pain that worsens with movement, deep breaths, or pressure on the affected area.
Pain relievers, rest, and avoiding strenuous activities can help manage symptoms.
Muscle Strain
Physical overexertion, heavy lifting, or sudden movements can strain your chest muscles, leading to soreness below your left breast. This type of pain typically improves with rest, gentle stretching, and pain relief measures such as ice packs or heat therapy.
Breast-Related Causes
Pain in this area may also be related to breast conditions such as infections, hormonal changes, or post-surgical discomfort.
Breast Surgery
Pain following breast surgery is common and can last several weeks. Studies show that approximately 50% of patients experience lingering discomfort after procedures.
Unexpected right ?
Recovery may take up to six weeks, and proper pain management techniques can ease the healing process.
Milk Duct Issues
Breastfeeding mothers may experience blocked milk ducts, leading to swelling, tenderness, and pain. Proper latching techniques, warm compresses, and frequent nursing can help resolve the issue.
Injury and Trauma
A direct blow to the chest can result in pain below your left breast. Even minor injuries can cause lingering discomfort, making medical evaluation necessary to check for fractures or tissue damage.
Rib Fracture
A broken rib can cause severe pain, especially when moving, breathing deeply, or coughing. Falls, direct impacts, or intense physical activity are common causes. Rib fractures require medical evaluation and may take weeks to heal with proper care.
Breast Injury
Direct trauma to the breast can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. If discomfort persists or worsens, a medical evaluation is recommended to rule out underlying issues.
When to Go to the Doctor
Certain symptoms indicate the need for immediate medical attention, including:
- Severe or persistent pain
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pain that radiates to the jaw, arm, or back
- Nausea, dizziness, or fainting
- Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
Seeking medical care promptly can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
Bottom Line
With all of this in mind, pain below your left breast can stem from multiple causes, including heart conditions, digestive issues, lung problems, musculoskeletal strain, or injuries.
Your body uses pain as a warning signal. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Prioritizing your health and seeking medical guidance when needed can provide relief and peace of mind.
Key Takeaways:
- Pain below the left breast can be caused by heart related issues, digestive problems, respiratory conditions, musculoskeletal issues, breast related causes or injuries. Knowing these causes is key to getting the right care.
- Seek immediate medical attention if pain below the left breast is severe or persistent especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat or radiating pain as these could be life threatening.
- Conditions like angina, pericarditis and heart attacks are critical to recognize as they can manifest in different symptoms from mild to severe pain so awareness and quick medical intervention is key.
