What Might Cause the Left Side of My Chest to Hurt When I Breathe?

When you experience pain on the left side of your chest while breathing, it could be a sign that something is irritating the tissues that move during each breath. One common cause is pleurisy, which is inflammation of the pleura, the thin lining around the lungs. This inflammation can cause a sharp or stabbing pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing. Another possible cause is costochondritis, where the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone is irritated or swollen. This musculoskeletal issue can produce pain when the chest wall moves during breathing. Sometimes, lung infections like pneumonia or other respiratory conditions can also lead to chest pain that is accentuated when you breathe. Although cardiovascular causes may also lead to chest pain, pain that specifically worsens with breathing is more commonly linked to respiratory or chest wall problems. However, chest pain with breathing can also be a symptom of a pulmonary emboli and this requires immediate attention, especially if accompanied by a sensation as though your heart is racing, dizziness or shortness of breath. It is important to pay attention to other symptoms, such as fever, shortness of breath, or pain that gets worse over time, and let your doctor know so they can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate tests or treatments.