Sternum Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help - Pulmonology

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Sternum pain can be a concerning symptom, especially when it is accompanied by other signs such as difficulty breathing or persistent discomfort. Understanding the potential causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help is crucial for proper management and treatment.


Causes of Sternum Pain
1. Costochondritis: This is one of the most common causes of sternum pain. It involves inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. This condition can cause sharp pain that worsens with certain movements, such as stretching or deep breathing.

2. Muscle Strain: Overstretching or straining the muscles around the chest can lead to pain in the sternum area. This is particularly common in individuals who engage in physical activities that involve heavy lifting or repetitive motions.

3. Sternum Fracture: Although less common, a fracture of the sternum can occur due to trauma, such as a fall or a car accident. This type of injury would typically present with significant pain and tenderness over the sternum.

4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Sometimes, pain in the sternum can be mistaken for heart-related issues, but it may actually be due to acid reflux. GERD can cause a burning sensation in the chest, often mistaken for heart pain.

5. Heart-Related Issues: While less likely, it is important to consider that sternum pain can sometimes be related to heart problems, such as angina or even a heart attack. This is especially true if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, sweating, or radiating pain to the arms or jaw.

6. Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart) or infections affecting the sternum can also lead to pain in this area.


Symptoms to Monitor
- Location of Pain: Is the pain localized to the sternum, or does it radiate to other areas?
- Nature of Pain: Is it sharp, dull, or burning? Does it worsen with movement or deep breathing?
- Duration: How long does the pain last? Is it intermittent or constant?
- Associated Symptoms: Are there any other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal symptoms?

When to Seek Help
Given your description of the pain occurring during stretching and the associated discomfort with deep breathing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if:
- The pain persists or worsens over time.

- You experience significant discomfort that interferes with daily activities.

- You have accompanying symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest tightness.

- You notice swelling or tenderness in the area around the sternum.


Diagnostic Tests
If you decide to seek medical attention, your healthcare provider may recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your sternum pain:
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination to assess tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.

- Imaging Studies: X-rays or MRI may be ordered to rule out fractures or other structural issues.

- Blood Tests: To check for signs of inflammation or infection.

- Electrocardiogram (ECG): If there is concern about heart-related issues, an ECG may be performed.


Conclusion
In summary, while sternum pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, gastrointestinal problems, or even cardiac conditions, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Given your history of pain during stretching and discomfort with deep breathing, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help alleviate your symptoms and address any underlying conditions effectively.