what causes substernal pain

Full Answer

What causes pain in the sternum area?

What other musculoskeletal conditions cause sternum pain?

• Sternoclavicular joint injury. The sternoclavicular joint (SC joint) connects the top of your sternum with your collarbone (clavicle).
• Collarbone trauma. The collarbone is directly connected to your sternum, so injuries, dislocation, fractures, or other trauma to the collarbone can affect the sternum.
• Sternum fracture. ...
• Muscle strain or hernia. ...

What can cause pain in center of chest?

• Hyperventilation, often from a panic attack
• Indigestion and peptic ulcers
• Muscle strain or tightness
• Inflammation of the soft tissue between the ribs (costochondritis)
• Injury to the chest or upper abdomen
• Arthritis of the spine
• Drug use, including amphetamines and cocaine

What does substernal mean?

substernal adjective situated under the sternum Chambers 20th Century Dictionary (1.00 / 1 vote) Rate this definition: Substernal sub-ster′nal, adj. situated beneath the sternum. Anagrams for substernal » subalterns, turbanless How to pronounce substernal? David US English Zira US English How to say substernal in sign language? Numerology

Is my sternum bruised or fractured?

The sternum is more commonly called the breastbone. While it’s possible to bruise your sternum, this pain is more likely caused by costochondritis. This is inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your sternum. Learn about other possible causes of sternum pain.

What causes substernal discomfort?

Potential substernal chest pain causes include myocardial infarction (heart attack), pulmonary embolism, aortic stenosis, stable angina pectoris, acute coronary syndrome, atrial fibrillation, pneumonia, and severe anxiety and panic attacks, just to name a few.

Is substernal chest pain serious?

Angina Pectoris Brief substernal pain resulting from myocardial ischemia, commonly provoked by physical activity or emotional stress, is a common and significant symptom of coronary heart disease. Patients with angina, especially unstable or severe angina, are at increased risk for arrhythmias, MI, and sudden death.

What can cause sternal chest pain that's not heart related?

The main underlying mechanisms include gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal dysmotility and esophageal hypersensitivity. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is likely the most common cause of noncardiac chest pain. Esophageal dysmotility affects only the minority of noncardiac chest pain patients.

What does substernal pain mean?

Substernal pain is discomfort occurring behind or below the sternum. It often results from gastrointestinal conditions. Some of the most common causes of sternum and substernal pain are: costochondritis.

What are 6 common non cardiac causes of chest pain?

What are the most common causes of noncardiac chest pain?Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). ... Esophageal muscle spasms. ... Achalasia. ... Esophageal hypersensitivity. ... Inflammation of the esophagus. ... Abnormal esophageal tissue.

Can GERD cause substernal pain?

GERD-related chest pain can be squeezing or burning in nature, substernal in location, and may radiate to the back, neck, jaws, or arms. The pain may be worse after meals and wake the patient from sleep.

Should I be worried if my sternum hurts?

You should go to the ER immediately if you have any of the following: Sternum or chest bone pain that isn't from a minor injury. Pain radiating to your arms, jaw, or back. Shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, or dizziness.

When should I be concerned about sternum pain?

See your doctor right away if you have heart attack symptoms or symptoms that cause you sharp, consistent pain that gets in the way of your daily life. You should also see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: sternum and general chest pain that has no obvious cause.

How do you know if chest pain is muscular or heart?

The pain of a heart attack differs from that of a strained chest muscle. A heart attack may cause a dull pain or an uncomfortable feeling of pressure in the chest. Usually, the pain begins in the center of the chest, and it may radiate outward to one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

What organ is under your sternum?

The thymus is a small organ located just behind the breast bone (sternum) in the front part of the chest.

What are 3 to 5 common causes of chest pain?

Five Different Common Causes of Chest PainHeart-Related Causes. Heart issues frequently cause chest pain. ... Lung-Related Causes. If you experience lung (pulmonary) pain, it's likely that you'll also feel chest pain. ... Stress-Related Causes. ... Digestion-Related Causes. ... Muscle-Related Causes.

Why do I feel pain in my diaphragm?

Your diaphragm can spasm when you breathe hard during strenuous exercise, like running, which can cause pain in your sides. The pain can be sharp or very tight. It restricts breathing and prevents you from drawing a full breath without discomfort.

What is substernal chest pressure?

Classic angina presents with substernal chest pain that's described as “squeezing” or “pressure-like.” It often radiates to the arms or jaw and is made worse by exertion or emotion and made better by rest or nitroglycerin. 3. It may be associated with diaphoresis, nausea, weakness or shortness of breath.

What should a nurse do if a patient complains of chest pain?

Nursing ManagementManage chest pain.Bed rest.Provide oxygen.Administer aspirin and nitroglycerin.Place patient with head of the bed elevated at 45 degrees.Make patient comfortable.Hook up to monitor.Check vitals.More items...•

What does Substernal mean?

below the sternumSubsternal means “below the sternum” and therefore into the chest. Substernal and retosternal “behind the sternum” are often used without differences really considered between either.

Which potentially life threatening causes of chest pain other than ACS should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis?

Although they occur less frequently, there are also non-ACS etiologies of chest pain that are potentially life-threatening and with which prehospital providers should be familiar. These include pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, pericarditis with tamponade and esophageal rupture.

You already know that clogged coronary arteries, heart rhythm disorders and muscle strains can cause substernal chest pain, but there are causes you have no idea about

You already know that clogged coronary arteries, heart rhythm disorders and muscle strains can cause substernal chest pain, but there are causes you have no idea about.

Here are lesser known causes of substernal (behind the breastbone) chest pain

An aortic aneurysm is when the aorta (the body’s largest blood vessel) has a bulge.

How to treat substernal chest pain?

The treatment for Substernal Chest Pain solely depends on the underlying cause of the pain. These pains are usually treated with medications, but the medications are selected de pending on the cause of the pain.

What Are Some of The Associated Symptoms Along With Substernal Chest Pain?

It may be quite difficult to differentiate between chest pain caused by a cardiac disease and chest pain not caused due to cardiac disease. Some of the associated symptoms, which can determine that the chest pain is less likely due to a cardiac cause are:

What is the pain below the sternal bone called?

If an individual experiences pain just below the sternal bone, then it is termed as Substernal Chest Pain. Substernal Chest Pain can be quite painful and there are various factors which lead to Substernal Chest Pain, some of which can be extremely serious to include Pulmonary Embolism, Aortic Stenosis, Stable Angina Pectoris, ...

Why Is It Important To Undergo Diagnostic Tests For Substernal Chest Pain?

Even though an individual may have Substernal Chest Pain which may not be caused due to a cardiac cause, but it is still imperative for the individual to undergo diagnostic studies to rule out a potentially cardiac cause of the pain, as it is difficult to differentiate Substernal Chest Pain caused due to cardiac causes or non-cardiac causes. Some of these tests are:

Why does my sternum hurt?

Sternum pain is usually caused by problems with the muscles and bones near the sternum and not the sternum itself. Pain felt just behind or below the sternum is called substernal pain and is sometimes caused by gastrointestinal problems . Some of the most common causes of sternum and substernal pain are: costochondritis.

What is the pain in the sternum?

Sternum pain is pain or discomfort in the area of the chest that contains the sternum and the cartilage connecting it to the ribs.

What causes pain in the neck and back?

A rheumatological condition that can cause persistent and widespread pain including symmetrical tender points at the second costochondral junction as well as the neck, back hip and extremities. General myalgia. Related to a history of chest trauma or recent onset of strenuous exercise to upper body (e.g. rowing).

How long does a stabbing pain last?

The pain is typically provoked in slouched positions and is worsened by deep breathing. Episodes typically last from 30 seconds up to three minutes.

Why does my esophagus hurt?

Referred pain from the esophagus: Esophageal spasm could be triggered by anxiety or drinking cold water.

How many hospital admissions are related to chest pain?

Approx. 1-3% of annual visits to a primary care provider in the United States is related to chest pain and 20-30% of hospital admissions is for pain in this area.

Where does osteomyelitis occur?

Swelling from rib osteomyelitis typically occurs near the costochondral junction or the costovertebral angle.

Why does my sternum hurt?

Sternum pain is usually caused by problems with the muscles and bones near the sternum and not the sternum itself. Pain felt just behind or below the sternum is called substernal pain and is sometimes caused by gastrointestinal problems. Some of the most common causes of sternum and substernal pain are: costochondritis. collarbone injuries.

What causes sternum fractures?

Sternum fractures usually occur as a direct result of trauma, such as a car accident or sports injury. People who believe they may have a sternum fracture should seek immediate medical attention, as the heart and lungs may also be injured. Symptoms of a sternum fracture include: pain during inhaling or coughing.

What is the sternum?

The sternum is sometimes known as the breastbone. This flat bone sits at the front of the chest and connects to the ribs with cartilage.

What is the cause of burning in the chest?

Acid reflux or GERD. Acid reflux happens when stomach acid wears away the lining of the windpipe (esophagus). This happens primarily in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ). Acid reflux may cause substernal pain and discomfort in the chest and is generally accompanied by a burning feeling.

Why does my collarbone hurt?

Injuries to the collarbone may cause pain in the sternum area. Collarbone injuries are often the result of trauma, such as a car accident or sports injury, although infections or arthritis can also cause them. Symptoms of a collarbone injury include: severe pain when raising the arm.

How do you know if you have a hiatal hernia?

Symptoms of a hiatal hernia include: frequent burping. heartburn. vomiting blood. a feeling of fullness. trouble swallowing. People with substernal pain and symptoms of a hiatal hernia should see a doctor for prompt treatment.

What joint connects the top of the sternum to the collarbone?

The sternoclavicular joint connects the top of the sternum to the collarbone. Injuries to this joint generally cause pain and discomfort at the top of the sternum in the upper chest area.

What causes substernal chest pain?

There are various factors which lead to Substernal Chest Pain, some of which can be extremely serious to include Pulmonary Embolism, Aortic Stenosis, Stable Angina Pectoris, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Myocardial Infarction, Atrial Fibrillation and the like.

What does substernal chest pain feel like?

Substernal chest pain can be symptomized by:#N#• Presence of a sour taste in the mouth or a sensation of regurgitation where that the swallowed food reenters the mouth#N#• Individual having problems with swallowing#N#• Presence of chest tenderness with deep palpation#N#• Individual having symptoms of heartburn with a burning sensation behind the breastbone.#N#• Pressure, fullness or tightness in your chest#N#• Crushing or searing pain that radiates to your back, neck, jaw, shoulders and arms particularly your left arm#N#• Pain that lasts more than a few minutes, gets worse with activity, goes away and comes back or varies in intensity#N#• Cold sweats#N#• Dizziness or weakness#N#• Nausea or vomiting#N#• Pain that gets better or worse when you change your body position#N#• Pain that intensifies when you breathe deeply or cough

How many people have substernal chest pain?

It is estimated that about 25% of people in the United States experience Substernal chest pain for one reason or another. Substernal chest pain usually can be diagnosed by history and physical examination if other etiologies have been excluded.

Why does my chest hurt?

Some chest pain is described as crushing or burning. Chest pain can be caused by acute pericarditis, perhaps following a viral illness. In this condition, chest pain radiates to the back, neck, or shoulders and often worsens when the patient inhales.

Is substernal pain a heart condition?

Substernal Chest Pain can be quite painful. If an individual experiences pain just below the sternal bone, then it is termed as Substernal Chest Pain. Typical chest pains are related to heart complications, and substernal pain falls under this category.

Why does my sternum hurt?

You can have pain in this area because of infection, inflammation, injury, or the breakdown of cartilage affecting the sternum itself. Problems with nearby organs like the heart, lungs, and esophagus can also cause pain in this area.

What does it mean when you have pain in your sternum?

Pain in the sternum is a complaint where we really need to consider every piece of evidence to feel confident making the right diagnosis. Bloodwork shows if there is injury to the heart muscle or an infection. An EKG shows if there are electrical changes from a heart attack. A chest x-ray or CT scan can show some infections. —Dr. Jacobsen

What is the name of the joint where the sternum meets the clavicle?

Osteoarthritis is a breakdown of joint cartilage over time. The sternoclavicular joint is where the top of the sternum (breastbone) meets the clavicle (collarbone). Osteoarthritis in this area can cause pain in the sternum, especially near the top part.

What to do if your sternum breaks?

Ice, over-the-counter pain medications, and, sometimes, prescription pain medications may relieve your sternum pain. You may need surgery to fix the break or to treat other injuries inside the chest.

What is the best way to treat sternum pain?

Ice, over-the-counter pain medications, and, sometimes, prescription pain medications may relieve your sternum pain.

What tests are done for sternum pain?

Heart attack can be life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. When you go to the ER for sternum pain, you’ll likely have tests like an EKG, blood tests, and a chest X-ray.

Why does my sternum hurt after open heart surgery?

Tumors. Patients who have had open heart surgery may have chronic pain in the sternum because doctors have to split this bone in half to perform the procedure. Some people have genetic conditions that cause the sternum to sink into the chest or to jut forward, and this may cause pain.

What is the pain behind the breastbone?

Retrosternal means behind the breastbone, or sternum. Retrosternal chest pain, therefore, is a pain that occurs inside the chest. Although it’s likely that pain behind the breastbone relates to the organs located there, such as the heart and esophagus, sometimes the pain originates elsewhere but is felt in this area.

What are the different types of retrosternal pain?

In most cases, retrosternal chest pain falls into four primary areas: gastrointestinal, or relating to the stomach and intestines. cardiovascular, or relating to the heart and blood vessels. respiratory, or relating to organs used for breathing . t umoral, or relating to an abnormal growth of tissue .

What is retrosternal chest pain?

Retrosternal chest pain can be a symptom of many conditions affecting the upper stomach and esophagus.

What is mediastinal lymphadenopathy?

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy — also referred to as mediastinal adenopathy — is the enlargement of the mediastinal lymph nodes. If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics will most likely be prescribed. If cancer is suspected, your doctor will suggest a biopsy.

Why does my sternum hurt?

Sternum pain can be caused by inflammation of cartilage in your chest. Exercise is beneficial for heart, lung, bone and tissue health. However, exercise can sometimes lead to unknown pains that can alarm unsuspecting exercisers.

What is the inflammation of the cartilage around the sternum?

Costochondritis. Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that surrounds your sternum. Exercise and the heavy breathing that often accompanies exercise can make the symptoms of costochondritis more prevalent.

What is the name of the condition that causes pain in the back of the neck and back of the neck?

Angina can be a sign of heart disease and should be treated by a physician as soon as possible. You may also experience pain in your arms, neck, shoulders, back and jaw, in addition to nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness and anxiety. Angina triggered by physical exertion or exercise is termed "stable angina.".

How to heal a sternum fracture?

Most sternum fractures are treated with rest and discontinuing exercise until you are healed. Only sternum fractures that cause damage to your internal organs require more complex treatment and possible surgery to repair the damage. Advertisement.

How to tell if you have a fractured sternum?

A sternum fracture can occur as the result of a fall during exercise or a direct blow to the chest during participation in contact sports. Common symptoms of a chest fracture include pain, tenderness, visual deformity and bruising. Most sternum fractures are treated with rest and discontinuing exercise until you are healed. Only sternum fractures that cause damage to your internal organs require more complex treatment and possible surgery to repair the damage.

Can twisting cause sternum pain?

Abnormal twisting and turning -- especially turning core exercises -- can lead to a pulled muscle or torn cartilage in your sternum area. Pain is normally felt along the sternum, and tends to decrease when you rest and increase when you participate in physical activity.

Introduction

Clinical Relevant Anatomy

Causes of Sternal Pain

• Sternum pain is usually caused by problems with the muscles and bones near the sternum and not the sternum itself. Pain felt just behind or below the sternum is called substernal pain and is sometimes caused by gastrointestinal problems. Some of the most common causes of sternum and substernal pain are: 1. costochondritis 2. collarbone injuries 3. ...

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