Have you ever felt an unexpected, sharp pain in your chest and wondered what on earth just happened?
A recent viral TikTok by @hope.dx drew attention to this sudden, sharp chest pain, particularly in the left breast. Many commenters shared a common sentiment: they were relieved they weren’t alone and curious about the cause.
In another viral TikTok, Lauren (@chaoskenobi) mentioned that her doctor suggested the pain could be pleurisy, an inflammation of the thin tissue separating the lungs from the chest wall. This condition causes a sharp chest pain that intensifies with deep breaths. Commenters also mentioned the possibility of precordial catch syndrome, characterized by brief, sharp chest pain, typically around the left nipple, worsening with deep breaths.
Lauren later clarified in a follow-up video that there are several conditions with similar symptoms, so it’s essential not to self-diagnose and to consult a doctor. She also expressed surprise at the number of people experiencing these symptoms and the lack of knowledge among doctors.
Fahimeh Sasan, MD, FACOG, an OB-GYN, emphasized the importance of seeking medical advice for recurring breast pain. She advised women to have a breast exam, and depending on the findings and family history, further imaging like ultrasounds or mammograms might be recommended.
Mary Jane Minkin, MD, a clinical professor of OB-GYN at Yale University, couldn’t provide a definitive answer but acknowledged that the described pain is pleuritic, which can occur anywhere in the chest. She also mentioned costochondritis, an inflammation of the ribs, as a possible cause. Minkin advised that if the pain is brief and self-limited, there’s no need to worry; however, an evaluation is necessary if it persists.
You’re not alone if you’ve experienced sudden chest pain near your left breast like those on TikTok. There could be various reasons for the pain, such as pleurisy or costochondritis. Regardless, it’s crucial to consult your doctor, especially if the pain persists.
