That twinge on your right side – is it serious chest pain? Chest pain, even when isolated to the right side, can be alarming. While a heart attack is often associated with left-side chest pain, discomfort on the right shouldn't be ignored.
Several factors can cause chest pain on the right. Muscle strain from overexertion or injury is a common culprit. Costochondritis, an inflammation of the cartilage connecting ribs, can also cause sharp, localized pain. Lung conditions like pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining) or even pneumonia can present with right-sided chest pain, often accompanied by coughing or shortness of breath. Gallbladder issues, referred pain from the liver, and even anxiety can also contribute.
It's crucial to differentiate between minor discomfort and a potential emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if your chest pain is severe, accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or radiates to your arm or jaw. Don't self-diagnose; a doctor can accurately determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Listen to your body and get it checked out!
