Pain in the sternum is often scary as many patients associate it with a heart attack. However, in most cases, the pain in the sternum is not related to the heart. There are many vital organs behind the breastbone, including the heart, lungs, and stomach. Therefore, there are various diseases, the symptom of which is, among others pain in the area of the sternum. What could be the causes of pain in the sternum? When is it necessary to see a doctor?
Pain in the sternumcan indicate many diseases related to muscles, bones, digestive tract or respiratory system. For those under the age of 40, the likelihood that it indicates heart problems is minimal. Elderly people are also more likely to suffer from other conditions, and the pain in the sternum itself does not directly indicate a heart attack.
Pain in the sternum - causes
Costal cartilage inflammation
Inflammation of the costal cartilage is a common cause of pain in the sternum.
Symptoms of costal cartilage inflammation are:
- sharp pains in the side of the sternum,
- rib pain,
- pain that gets worse when you cough or breathe in deeply.
Costal cartilage inflammation is most often a consequence of a chest injury, exercise or chronic joint disease .
This condition is not dangerous and should not be of any serious concern.
Over-the-counter over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs from NSAIDs will help relieve pain. If the discomfort persists or additional symptoms appear, consult a doctor.
Gastrointestinal problems
Heartburn
Behind the breastbone are organs that belong to the digestive tract. Medical conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach, and intestines may be responsible for pain in the sternum. Heartburn and acid reflux are the most common causes of chest pain associated with the digestive system.
Heartburn occurs when acid from the stomach escapes into the esophagus , causing chest pain. Discomfort most often occurs immediately after a meal. Characteristic for heartburn is pain that worsens when you lie down or lean forward.
Heartburn usually goes away on its own. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve discomfort. If the problem is recurring, go aheadsee a doctor for help.
Acid reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition associated with the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus . Reflex disease is similar to heartburn. The difference is that acid reflux damages the lining of the esophagus, which leads to inflammation.
The symptoms of acid reflux disease are:
- burning in the chest,
- bitter taste in the mouth,
- difficulty swallowing,
- cough,
- sore throat or hoarseness,
- feeling of a lump in the throat.
Stomach ulcers
Pain in the sternum may be related to the presence of peptic ulcers , i.e. defects in the mucosa of this organ. Peptic ulcer disease is most often caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori or the abuse of NSAID-type painkillers.
The symptoms of stomach ulcers are:
- stomach pain on an empty stomach,
- feeling bloated,
- nausea,
- lack of appetite.
Diseases of the respiratory system
The most important organs of the respiratory system are in the chest.Lung, trachea, and bronchial disease may be responsible for the pain in the sternum .
Pleurisy
Pleurisy is a disease of the membranes that surround the lungs and line the chest cavity.This disease is manifested by severe pain in the chest when breathing . Pain may also be felt behind the breastbone.
Common symptoms of pleurisy are:
- sharp pain when breathing, sneezing or coughing
- disturbing cough,
- shortness of breath,
- fever.
Consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms.
bronchitis
Pain behind the breastbone may be related to acute bronchitis. Cough is the most common symptom of this condition. The disease may last from several days to several weeks. The vast majority of bronchitis cases are the result of a viral infection.
In the case ofbronchitis, chest pain during inhalation and exhalation is characteristic . In addition to short-term acute bronchitis, there is chronic bronchitis, which is a long-term condition associated with e.g. smoking.
Common symptoms of bronchitis are:
- wheezing,
- shortness of breath,
- fever,
- chest pain,
- exposing bronchial mucus,
- difficulty breathing.
In the case ofIf these symptoms occur, see a doctor for advice.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that mainly affects the alveoli of the lungs. The disease is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection.Pneumonia may be responsible for pain behind the breastbone .
Common symptoms of pneumonia are:
- difficulty breathing,
- high fever,
- persistent cough.
If you suspect pneumonia, see a doctor. In most cases, the disease requires antibiotic therapy.
Panic attack
Pain in the sternum can also be caused by a panic attack. There may be times when we feel paralyzing anxiety for no good reason. A panic attack may be the result of prolonged stress or a symptom of a mental illness such as depression.
The symptoms of a panic attack are:
- anxiety that something bad is about to happen,
- dizziness,
- daze,
- difficulty breathing,
- feeling hot or cold,
- stomach cramps,
- chest pain.
A panic attack can happen to anyone in certain life situations. On an ad hoc basis, herbal preparations available at a pharmacy without a prescription can help to calm down. In the event of repeated panic attacks, seek help from a psychiatrist.
Pain in the sternum - could it be a heart attack?
Very rarely, pain in the sternum may indicate a heart attack . However, this is one of the last possibilities that should be taken into account. The probability that the pain behind the breastbone may indicate a heart attack in a person under the age of 40 is really remote.
The possibility of a heart attack should be taken into account in patients over 40 years of agediagnosed with cardiovascular diseases.
If your medical history and symptoms indicate a heart attack, you should immediately go to the emergency department or call an ambulance.
The symptoms of a heart attack are:
- pain in the left side or in the center of the chest,
- pain in the arms, shoulders or jaw,
- dizziness or light-headedness,
- breathing difficulties,
- nausea.
Pain in the sternum - when to see a doctor?
Wif you suspect a heart attackyou should call an ambulance or go to the emergency department. This is especially important for people who have previously had a heart attack or are diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases.
Pain in the sternum can indicate both mild diseases and dangerous diseases. Downa doctor should be consulted in case of any disturbing symptoms, such as:
- pain in the sternum with no known cause,
- sweating,
- dizziness,
- nausea for no apparent reason,
- breathing problems,
- tightness in the chest.
We should also visit the doctor with any pain in the sternum, whichlasts more than a few days .
Cask also:
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