Re: Chest Pain

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on June 30, 1998 at 19:07:06:

In Reply to: Chest Pain posted by Kathy Grubbs on June 30, 1998 at 14:20:56:






I am a female, 34 years old, general good health, overweight about 45 pounds.  Recently I began having mild "chest" pain primarily on my left side, behind my breast, occasionally I will also get a sharp pain in the upper leg/groin area.  I do get a lot of exercise/aerobic dance, walking, gardening, etc. There is no history of heart trouble in our family.  Someone suggested that I may be suffering from (excuse the spelling-I'm not sure how it's spelled)  Pluracy?  What is that and what are the symptoms?
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Dear Kathy:
Pleurisy is a term that refers to inflammation around the lungs.  It is usually a pain associated with lung problems such as pneumonia, lung clots, rib fractures, and a host of other conditions.  Typically, the pain is worse on taking a deep breath.  Pleurisy is a very nonspecific term that does not describe a single disease.
If I had to guess, I would say that your aches are due to muscle strain from your activities.  However, it would be advisable to see your general doctor for a thorough evaluation, and this is what I suggest.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.