Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Can A CT Scan Help To Determine The Causes For Left-sided Chest Pain?
Question: I have had sharp pain left chest under breast that wraps around to my back for 3 months with 2 episodes of "popping" sensation followed by intense pain. This started following an episode of respiratory virus (have asthma) then another respiratory virus 2 months later. Been to ER twice and MD twice with x-rays always "okay". But pain persists. Cannot tolerate NSAIDS in any form (cause nausea and vomiting). Would a CT scan narrow down a dx and help facilitate treatment?
Brief Answer:
Left sided chest pain may be due to many causes.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Left sided chest pain may be due to many causes like cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal causes.
You may need proper clinical evaluation and investigations.
Besides routine hemogram, I suggest ECG in all leads.
CT scan may be advised after evaluation. Definitely, CT scan and MRI will narrow down the causes.
Further ECHO etc may be advised after evaluation.
It is also important to evaluate for costochondritis etc.
Hope I have answered your query.
Get well soon.
Regards,
Dr. Indu Kumar, Radiologist
Left sided chest pain may be due to many causes.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Left sided chest pain may be due to many causes like cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal causes.
You may need proper clinical evaluation and investigations.
Besides routine hemogram, I suggest ECG in all leads.
CT scan may be advised after evaluation. Definitely, CT scan and MRI will narrow down the causes.
Further ECHO etc may be advised after evaluation.
It is also important to evaluate for costochondritis etc.
Hope I have answered your query.
Get well soon.
Regards,
Dr. Indu Kumar, Radiologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
