severe pain in left side of chest

[xiaohyolee]

today, i had a severe pain on the left side of my chest. like in my left breast, extending towards the side and back. it's constant pain and i feel like vomiting a bit because of that pain. it got so severe that i had to lie down and then it felt a bit better but it's still throbbing. i recently got put on antibiotics (azithromycin) for a throat infection, but these pains are not a side effect. i have experienced the side effects of my antibiotics; i had diarrhea and slight stomach pains, but that was it.

i'm 16; female. i know i'm very young but i'm still scared if this is something serious. thanks so much!!!!!!!!

[xiaohyolee]

thanks! i tried all your suggestions and there hasn't been any pain since.
i'm still experiencing mild diarrhea but i guess i'm one of the unlucky 5% who experience side effects from azithromycin.

thanks so much!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The symptoms are suggestive of gastritis.The antibiotic azithromycin that you are taking is notorious for causing gastritis. Eat small nutritious meals at frequent intervals instead of a heavy single meal. Exercise frequently and take your dinner atleast 2 hrs prior to bedtime. Also raise the head end of the bed by 2 blocks.
For now, pls take some antacid like Maalox and Mylanta or OTC medications like zantac or prilosec.
If the symptoms persist then pls get yourself evaluated from a physician.Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted on how you are doing.