Pain in left chest and shoulder that worsens with breathing

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hello! I am getting a pain coming from my heart across to the top of my shoulder it is a sharp pain that hurts a lots when trying to breathe in. Lying down eases it. It has got more frequent in the last 3-4 months. I have got it before very occasionally though and i have suffered from panic and always put it down to that. Its more often now. How do i know if its panic or more serious? Thank you

Dear Maria: According to your description the pain, most likely you may have a Post traumatic Intercostal Neuritis, which is not a serious condition but very annoying indeed and slow healing. By a spasm, inadequate breathing patterns or a direct trauma the intercostals muscles and nerves get affected, producing the pain every time you take a deep breath, sneeze or cough. The suggested strategy would be: please, try to be patient and do not expect an overnight improvement, take anti inflammatory medication (“Aleve”, “Motrin”), and also Vitamin B12 supplement. Local moist heat helps to ease the pain. Try to avoid activities that worsen the pain.