What causes pain below the left clavicle?

Pain below the left rib cage in clinical terms refers to pain under the left ribs. This type of pain may be caused by conditions such as costochondritis, lung diseases, angina pectoris, coronary heart disease, pancreatitis, or skin lesions.

1. Costochondritis

Costochondritis typically presents as chest pain that may radiate to the back or abdomen. Tenderness may occur when pressing on the costal cartilage.

2. Lung Diseases

Lung diseases—including inflammation, tumors, tuberculosis, or injury affecting the left lung—can also cause pain beneath the left rib cage.

3. Angina Pectoris

Angina can cause a dull ache under the left ribs, often radiating to the left shoulder and back. During an angina attack, sharp or stabbing pain may occur under the left ribs, accompanied by symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue.

4. Coronary Heart Disease

Angina caused by coronary heart disease can also lead to pain beneath the left rib cage. Coronary heart disease is short for coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. When myocardial blood supply becomes insufficient due to various factors, angina attacks may occur. The pain under the left ribs is often clearly associated with emotional stress, excitement, or strenuous physical activity.

5. Pancreatitis

In cases of pancreatitis, there may be a persistent, dull pain in the area below the left rib. The pain can be severe and is often accompanied by fever, nausea, and vomiting.

6. Skin Lesions

Skin lesions, including skin injuries and herpes zoster (shingles), can also cause pain beneath the left rib cage.