Sharp Pain In Left Side Of Chest, Shortness Of Breath. Should I Be Worried?

Posted on Fri, 6 Jul 2012

Question: Over the last two weeks when laying on my left side my chest hurts with sharp pains and I have shortness of breath. Due to financial matter I have not seen a Doc. Is this something that I need to see a Doc for immediately or can I wait a couple of weeks?

Answered by Dr. Aparna Kohli (8 hours later)

Hi,
Thanks for writing in.

As per your brief history, I do not think you need to see a physician immediately. It looks like you are suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease or peptic ulcer disease. However, in order to help you better, I would request you to answer the following questions:
a. Does the pain increase after meals? Does the pain increase after breathing in?
b. Does the pain worsen after a heavy meal?
c. Is this the only time you have breathlessness or do you have breathlessness after exertion as well?
d. Do you smoke?

Till then, I would suggest the following:
a. Have small meals at regular intervals
b. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes ( if you consume any)
c. Have an early dinner
d. Have Tablet Prevacid OTC 20 mg once a day before meals

Awaiting your reply.
Hope this helps.

Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar