I've been having this quick, sharp pain on the left side of my chest whenever I put pressure on my left hand or lift something heavy. It's really strange because the pain just pops up out of nowhere, lasts only a few seconds, and then it's gone. Its been happening now and then for about 4 or 5 months, but it seems to be more frequent lately. Any idea what could be causing this? What should I do about it?
This type of chest pain that is triggered by certain movements or activities could be musculoskeletal in nature, such as costochondritis. It is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. To help relieve the pain and inflammation, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) at a dose of 400mg to 800mg every 6 hours as needed with food. Additionally, applying a warm compress to the area may also provide some relief. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.