The pain in the chest area, irrespective of the area being high up or lower down, is a matter of concern among people. This is because the important organs of the human body, like the heart and lungs, are located here.
People with a history of heart diseases are much concerned with this pain. But the fact is that pain in the lower chest area is actually abdominal pain as the
Some Reasons For Pain in the Sternum
Below listed are some of the reasons for the Sternum Pain. This pain may arise for several reasons, but it is advisable to consult a doctor in case of persistent pain.
1. Acid Reflux or Acidity
This is the main reason for pain below the sternum. Almost everyone has experienced heartburn at some moment in time.
When the stomach’s juices enter the oesophagus, it initiates a burning sensation in the region where the stomach and oesophagus meet.
This condition usually arises due to the weakening of the lower oesophagal sphincter. When it weakens, it is unable to prevent stomach juices from entering the oesophagus.
2. Gastritis
This is the common condition suffered by almost everyone. In this, you usually suffer pain in the middle and pain in the left side of the stomach.
In this condition, usually, the walls of the stomach get swelled up. So this becomes yet another reason for Sternum Pain.
3. Peptic Ulcer Disease
This is also a condition somewhat like a gastrointestinal condition. The main reasons for this are also gastritis.
In this condition, usually ulcers or sores occur in the walls of the stomach. This condition usually pain occurs in the upper middle abdominal region.
4. Stones In Gall Bladder or Gallstones
Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder from bile. When these stones are stuck in the neck of the gallbladder, it usually causes pain.
This pain may reach up to the back or even the right shoulder. In severe cases, even chances of jaundice are there.
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5. Pancreatitis
The swelling in the pancreas is termed pancreatitis. In acute cases, there may be pain in the middle of the abdomen.
In such pain, a person finds it difficult to even standing upright. If not treated timely, this disease can be life-threatening.
6. Heart Attack
When there is a blockage in the artery supplying blood to the heart, it causes the death of that particular heart tissue.
This generally is called a heart attack. In this condition, there is severe chest pain somewhat to the left side.
Symptoms
Various symptoms may tell you about pain in the sternum and back. Some of the symptoms include
- Nausea/vomiting is often an indication of some stomach digestive disorder.
- Bleeding in vomiting is indication of bleeding ulcer.
- Fever or chills come when either you have infection or gallstones.
- Chest pain is usually due to acid reflux.
- Sweating and dizziness is an indication of heart attack.
The cause of the pain may differ and may be confusing. So it is advised that you consult a doctor and get your tests done to diagnose the condition.
