What Are the Possible Causes of Left Side Chest Pain?

There are several possible causes of pain on the left side of the chest. One important cause is heart-related issues, such as reduced blood flow (angina) or other coronary problems, which may make the chest feel tight or painful. Lung conditions can also cause this type of pain; for example, pleuritic chest pain happens when the lining around the lungs is inflamed, and the pain often worsens with breathing. Additionally, psychological factors, including stress and depression, can result in left-sided psychogenic chest pain, where emotional distress leads to a physical sensation of pain. Other factors that might be involved include musculoskeletal problems in the chest wall, such as costochondritis, where the cartilage joining the ribs to the breastbone becomes inflamed. In outpatient evaluations, doctors consider all these possibilities when a patient presents with left side chest pain. If you experience this type of pain, it is important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional who can determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.