What causes dull pain below the left chest?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, dull pain below the left chest may be caused by muscle strain, stress and anxiety, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, one should pay attention to controlling exercise intensity, avoid overly strenuous physical activity, learn to regulate emotions, maintain a calm state of mind, and avoid excessive excitement.
Generally, dull pain below the left chest may be caused by muscle strain, stress and anxiety, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
Intense physical activity or improper posture may lead to strain of the chest muscles or intercostal muscles, causing persistent pain below the left chest. Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
2. Stress and Anxiety
Chronic mental tension can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, which may result in a sensation of dull pain below the left chest. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation, and seeking psychological counseling when necessary, can be beneficial.
3. Gastritis
Long-term consumption of spicy foods and beverages increases the risk of developing gastritis. Symptoms may include bloating and abdominal pain; severe abdominal pain can radiate to the area below the left chest, causing referred pain along with symptoms such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing. Patients may use medications such as sucralfate suspension gel, Weiyanning granules, or Weisu granules under medical guidance.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Overeating or binge eating may trigger GERD, where acid reflux irritates the esophageal mucosa, causing episodic pain in the left chest area, possibly accompanied by belching. Patients may take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, mosapride citrate, or lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets as advised by a physician.
5. Coronary Atherosclerotic Heart Disease
Long-term smoking and excessive intake of greasy foods may induce coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries leads to narrowing or blockage of the vessel lumen, resulting in myocardial ischemia and hypoxia. This produces metabolic byproducts such as lactic acid, which stimulate cardiac nerve endings and cause chest pain that may radiate to the lower left chest. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as isosorbide nitrate tablets, nifedipine tablets, or creatine phosphate sodium injection for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to control exercise intensity and avoid overly strenuous physical activity. Learning to regulate emotions, maintaining a calm mindset, and avoiding excessive excitement are also essential.
