What are the common causes of sternum pain. How can you differentiate between sternum pain and heart problems. When should you see a doctor for chest discomfort. What are the symptoms of costochondritis and how is it treated. How do injuries to the sternum and surrounding structures manifest.

Understanding Sternum Pain: Anatomy and Common Causes

The sternum, also known as the breastbone, is a flat T-shaped bone located at the front of the chest. It plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Sternum pain can arise from various conditions affecting the bone itself, surrounding structures, or even referred pain from other areas. Understanding the anatomy and potential causes is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common causes of sternum pain include:

• Costochondritis
• Sternum fractures
• Sternoclavicular joint injuries
• Collarbone injuries
• Muscular strains or bruises
• Hernias
• Acid reflux
• Pleurisy
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia

Costochondritis: A Leading Cause of Sternum Discomfort

Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the sternum to the ribs. This condition is a frequent source of sternum pain and can be quite uncomfortable. But what exactly causes costochondritis?

Several factors can contribute to the development of costochondritis:

• Impact trauma
• Respiratory tract infections
• Severe coughing
• Physical strain

Symptoms of costochondritis typically include:

• Sharp pain on the side of the sternum area
• Pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
• Discomfort in the ribs

Diagnosing and Treating Costochondritis

Diagnosing costochondritis often involves a physical examination and medical history review. Your doctor may press on the affected area to check for tenderness. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans might be ordered to rule out other conditions.

Treatment for costochondritis typically focuses on managing pain and reducing inflammation. This may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Application of heat or ice
• Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain
• Physical therapy exercises
• In severe cases, corticosteroid injections

Sternum Fractures: When Trauma Strikes the Breastbone

Sternum fractures are serious injuries that usually result from significant trauma, such as car accidents or sports injuries. These fractures can cause intense pain and potentially compromise the protection of vital organs in the chest cavity.

Symptoms of a sternum fracture include:

• Severe pain during inhalation or coughing
• Swelling over the sternum
• Difficulty breathing
• Bruising in the chest area

Diagnosing and Treating Sternum Fractures

If you suspect a sternum fracture, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical examination
• X-rays
• CT scans (in some cases)

Treatment for sternum fractures usually involves:

• Pain management
• Rest and limited movement
• Ice application to reduce swelling
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture but typically takes several weeks to months.

Sternoclavicular Joint Injuries: Where Collarbone Meets Breastbone

The sternoclavicular joint connects the top of the sternum to the collarbone. Injuries to this joint can cause significant discomfort in the upper chest area. But what are the common causes of sternoclavicular joint injuries?

These injuries often result from:

• Direct impact to the joint
• Falls onto an outstretched arm
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Contact sports

Symptoms of sternoclavicular joint injuries include:

• Mild to severe pain in the upper chest area
• Difficulty or pain when moving the shoulder
• Popping or clicking sounds around the joint
• Swelling or deformity at the joint site

Diagnosis and Treatment of Sternoclavicular Joint Injuries

Diagnosing sternoclavicular joint injuries involves:

• Physical examination
• X-rays
• CT scans or MRI for more detailed imaging

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and may include:

• Rest and immobilization of the joint
• Pain management with medications
• Physical therapy
• In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary

Collarbone Injuries: Impact on Sternum Pain

The collarbone, or clavicle, connects to the sternum via cartilage. Injuries to the collarbone can indirectly cause pain in the sternum area due to this close anatomical relationship. How do collarbone injuries typically occur?

Common causes of collarbone injuries include:

• Falls onto an outstretched arm
• Direct blows to the shoulder
• Sports-related impacts
• Motor vehicle accidents

Symptoms of collarbone injuries that may affect the sternum area include:

• Severe pain when raising the arm
• Bruising or swelling in the upper chest area
• Abnormal positioning or sagging of the shoulder
• Clicking and grinding sensations in the shoulder joint

Diagnosing and Treating Collarbone Injuries

Diagnosis of collarbone injuries typically involves:

• Physical examination
• X-rays to confirm fractures or dislocations
• In some cases, CT scans for more detailed imaging

Treatment options for collarbone injuries include:

• Immobilization with a sling or brace
• Pain management medications
• Physical therapy for rehabilitation
• In severe cases or those not responding to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary

Muscular Strains and Bruises: Soft Tissue Causes of Sternum Pain

The sternum serves as an attachment point for numerous muscles in the chest and upper body. Strains or bruises to these muscles can manifest as pain in or around the sternum. But how do these soft tissue injuries typically occur?

Common causes of muscular strains and bruises in the chest area include:

• Overexertion during exercise or physical activities
• Repetitive motions involving the chest muscles
• Direct impacts or blows to the chest
• Sudden, forceful movements of the arms or torso

Symptoms of muscular strains and bruises affecting the sternum area may include:

• Localized pain that worsens with movement
• Tenderness to touch
• Visible bruising or discoloration
• Stiffness or limited range of motion

Managing Muscular Strains and Bruises

Treatment for muscular strains and bruises in the chest area typically involves:

• Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain
• Application of ice to reduce swelling and numb pain
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises as pain allows
• In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended

Gastrointestinal Causes of Sternum Pain: Hernias and Acid Reflux

Sometimes, pain perceived in the sternum area may actually originate from gastrointestinal issues. Two common culprits are hiatal hernias and acid reflux. How do these conditions contribute to sternum pain?

Hiatal Hernias

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This can lead to symptoms that may be mistaken for sternum pain, including:

• Frequent burping
• Heartburn
• A feeling of fullness in the chest
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain or pressure

Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux, particularly in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause a burning sensation behind the sternum. This occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Sensation of a lump in the throat

Diagnosing and Treating Gastrointestinal Causes of Sternum Pain

Diagnosis of hiatal hernias and GERD may involve:

• Physical examination
• Endoscopy
• Barium swallow test
• pH monitoring

Treatment options can include:

• Lifestyle changes (e.g., dietary modifications, weight loss)
• Medications to reduce stomach acid production
• In severe cases of hiatal hernia, surgery may be necessary

Respiratory Conditions Causing Sternum Pain: Pleurisy, Bronchitis, and Pneumonia

Various respiratory conditions can lead to pain in or around the sternum area. Three common culprits are pleurisy, bronchitis, and pneumonia. How do these conditions manifest and contribute to sternum pain?

Pleurisy

Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura, the thin membranes that line the lungs and chest cavity. Symptoms include:

• Sharp, stabbing chest pain that worsens with breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Fever (in some cases)

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. It can cause:

• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Persistent cough with mucus production
• Fatigue
• Mild fever and chills

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. Symptoms can include:

• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Fever, sweating, and shaking chills
• Cough with phlegm
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue

Diagnosing and Treating Respiratory Causes of Sternum Pain

Diagnosis of these respiratory conditions may involve:

• Physical examination
• Chest X-rays
• Blood tests
• Sputum cultures
• Pulmonary function tests

Treatment varies depending on the specific condition and may include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for viral infections
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
• Rest and hydration
• In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary

Differentiating Sternum Pain from Heart Problems

One of the most critical aspects of experiencing chest pain is determining whether it’s related to the sternum or potentially a sign of a heart problem. How can you distinguish between sternum pain and cardiac issues?

Characteristics of Sternum Pain

Sternum pain typically:

• Is localized to a specific area of the chest
• May worsen with movement or pressure on the chest
• Often changes in intensity with breathing or coughing
• Can be sharp, dull, or aching

Characteristics of Heart-Related Chest Pain

Chest pain related to heart problems often:

• Feels like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest
• May radiate to the arms, jaw, neck, or back
• Is often accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness
• Typically doesn’t change with movement or pressure on the chest

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention

While many causes of sternum pain are not life-threatening, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe chest pain
• Chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea
• Pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, or arms
• Chest pain along with dizziness or fainting

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain. If you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical evaluation.

Causes and when to see a doctor

Many conditions can cause pain in the sternum, including injuries, pneumonia, bronchitis, and costochondritis. Gastrointestinal problems, such as acid reflux, can cause pain behind the sternum.

People may believe that their sternum pain is a heart attack symptom. However, it is possible to differentiate the two.

In this article, learn about the causes of sternum pain and the differences between sternum pain and heart problems.

The sternum is a flat T-shaped bone that sits at the front of the chest and connects to the ribs with cartilage. It forms part of the rib cage, a series of bones that protects the heart and lungs from injuries.

People often refer to the sternum as the breastbone.

Sternum pain can result from problems with muscles and bones near the sternum, as well as the sternum itself.

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
• sternum fracture
• sternoclavicular joint injury
• collarbone injuries
• muscular strain or bruise
• hernia
• acid reflux
• pleurisy
• bronchitis
• pneumonia

Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage between the sternum and ribs. The medical term for this area is the costochondral joint.

The symptoms of costochondritis include:

• sharp pain on the side of the sternum area
• pain that worsens with a deep breath or a cough
• discomfort in the ribs

Inflammation in the costochondral joint may occur due to injury, infection, or irritation. A person may experience costochondritis due to:

• impact trauma
• respiratory tract infections
• severe coughing
• physical strains

Learn more about costochondritis here.

Like fractures in other parts of the body, sternum fractures can cause a lot of pain. 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 in case of additional damage to the heart and lungs.

Symptoms of a sternum fracture include:

• pain during inhaling or coughing
• swelling over the sternum
• difficulty breathing

Learn more about fractures here.

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.

People experiencing sternum pain due to a sternoclavicular joint injury will often experience the following:

• mild pain or swelling in the upper chest area
• difficulty or pain when moving the shoulder
• popping or clicking around the joint

The collarbone connects to the top corners of the sternum by cartilage. Due to the direct connection between the two structures, injuries to the collarbone may cause pain in the sternum area.

Collarbone trauma

Impact and stress trauma can damage, or even fracture, a person’s collarbone. Collarbone trauma may affect its connection to the sternum and the surrounding musculature. This may mean a person feels pain either in or around their sternum.

Depending on the location of collarbone trauma, other symptoms may include:

• severe pain when raising the arm
• bruising or swelling in the upper chest area
• abnormal positioning or sagging of the shoulder
• clicking and grinding in the shoulder joint

A great many muscles connect to the sternum and ribs. Injuries or trauma can result in bruising these muscles, which may cause them to ache. Strenuous or repetitive movements can also cause strains in these muscles.

Learn more about muscle strains here.

Most hernias occur in the abdomen. However, a hiatal hernia can affect the chest area and cause substernal pain.

A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach moves past the diaphragm and into the chest. 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.

Learn more about hernias here.

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.

Pain in this region can also result from inflammation or a spasm of the windpipe. People with GERD should talk with their doctor about preventing further damage to this area.

Learn the difference between heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD here.

Pleura are sheets of tissue between the lungs and ribcage. Inflammation to these tissues is pleurisy.

Pleurisy can cause a sharp, stabbing pain at the site of irritation, which may worsen if a person breathes deeply, coughs, or wheezes.

If inflammation occurs toward the upper middle chest, pleurisy may cause substernal pain.

Learn more about pleurisy here.

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the primary airways of the lungs. The condition can cause:

• chest pain
• severe coughing spells
• shortness of breath
• wheezing

Inflammation of the primary airways may cause substernal pain.

Learn more about bronchitis here.

Pneumonia is a common lung infection that causes air sacs in the lungs to inflame and fill with fluid. The medical term for these air sacs is alveoli.

Pneumonia can cause sharp chest pains, which a person may feel behind their sternum.

Other symptoms of pneumonia include.

• severe coughing
• shortness of breath
• fever
• sweating
• nausea and vomiting
• loss of appetite
• confusion

Infectious bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause pneumonia.

Learn more about pneumonia here.

Symptoms of sternum pain vary depending on the cause. The most common symptom is discomfort and pain in the center of the chest, which is the location of the sternum.

Other associated symptoms may include:

• pain or discomfort in the ribs
• pain that worsens during deep breathing or coughing
• mild, aching pain in the upper chest
• swelling in the upper chest
• stiffness in the shoulder joints
• severe pain when raising the arms
• signs of collarbone trauma, such as bruising or swelling
• difficulty breathing
• grinding or popping sensation in joints near the sternum
• frequent belching
• heartburn
• feeling too full
• throwing up blood

People experiencing chest pain may worry they are having a heart attack. However, sternum pain differs from heart attack pain.

People who are having a heart attack experience specific signs before the heart attack itself, whereas most sternum pain starts suddenly.

A heart attack often occurs with the following symptoms:

• pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest
• sweating
• nausea
• shortness of breath
• lightheadedness

However, anyone who thinks they are having a heart attack should seek immediate medical attention.

While sternum pain is not usually serious, there are some causes of sternum pain that require immediate medical attention.

A person should seek emergency medical attention if the pain:

• started as a result of direct trauma
• is accompanied by heart attack symptoms
• is persistent and does not improve over time
• is accompanied by intense vomiting or vomiting blood

A person should also speak to a doctor if the pain in their sternum gets worse or does not improve over time.

Physical trauma, costochondritis, and muscle strains are common causes of sternum pain.

Conditions such as pneumonia, pleurisy and GERD can also cause pain in nearby tissue that people may mistake for sternum pain.

Read the article in Spanish.

Causes and when to see a doctor

Many conditions can cause pain in the sternum, including injuries, pneumonia, bronchitis, and costochondritis. Gastrointestinal problems, such as acid reflux, can cause pain behind the sternum.

People may believe that their sternum pain is a heart attack symptom. However, it is possible to differentiate the two.

In this article, learn about the causes of sternum pain and the differences between sternum pain and heart problems.

The sternum is a flat T-shaped bone that sits at the front of the chest and connects to the ribs with cartilage. It forms part of the rib cage, a series of bones that protects the heart and lungs from injuries.

People often refer to the sternum as the breastbone.

Sternum pain can result from problems with muscles and bones near the sternum, as well as the sternum itself.

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
• sternum fracture
• sternoclavicular joint injury
• collarbone injuries
• muscular strain or bruise
• hernia
• acid reflux
• pleurisy
• bronchitis
• pneumonia

Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage between the sternum and ribs. The medical term for this area is the costochondral joint.

The symptoms of costochondritis include:

• sharp pain on the side of the sternum area
• pain that worsens with a deep breath or a cough
• discomfort in the ribs

Inflammation in the costochondral joint may occur due to injury, infection, or irritation. A person may experience costochondritis due to:

• impact trauma
• respiratory tract infections
• severe coughing
• physical strains

Learn more about costochondritis here.

Like fractures in other parts of the body, sternum fractures can cause a lot of pain. 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 in case of additional damage to the heart and lungs.

Symptoms of a sternum fracture include:

• pain during inhaling or coughing
• swelling over the sternum
• difficulty breathing

Learn more about fractures here.

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.

People experiencing sternum pain due to a sternoclavicular joint injury will often experience the following:

• mild pain or swelling in the upper chest area
• difficulty or pain when moving the shoulder
• popping or clicking around the joint

The collarbone connects to the top corners of the sternum by cartilage. Due to the direct connection between the two structures, injuries to the collarbone may cause pain in the sternum area.

Collarbone trauma

Impact and stress trauma can damage, or even fracture, a person’s collarbone. Collarbone trauma may affect its connection to the sternum and the surrounding musculature. This may mean a person feels pain either in or around their sternum.

Depending on the location of collarbone trauma, other symptoms may include:

• severe pain when raising the arm
• bruising or swelling in the upper chest area
• abnormal positioning or sagging of the shoulder
• clicking and grinding in the shoulder joint

A great many muscles connect to the sternum and ribs. Injuries or trauma can result in bruising these muscles, which may cause them to ache. Strenuous or repetitive movements can also cause strains in these muscles.

Learn more about muscle strains here.

Most hernias occur in the abdomen. However, a hiatal hernia can affect the chest area and cause substernal pain.

A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach moves past the diaphragm and into the chest. 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.

Learn more about hernias here.

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.

Pain in this region can also result from inflammation or a spasm of the windpipe. People with GERD should talk with their doctor about preventing further damage to this area.

Learn the difference between heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD here.

Pleura are sheets of tissue between the lungs and ribcage. Inflammation to these tissues is pleurisy.

Pleurisy can cause a sharp, stabbing pain at the site of irritation, which may worsen if a person breathes deeply, coughs, or wheezes.

If inflammation occurs toward the upper middle chest, pleurisy may cause substernal pain.

Learn more about pleurisy here.

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the primary airways of the lungs. The condition can cause:

• chest pain
• severe coughing spells
• shortness of breath
• wheezing

Inflammation of the primary airways may cause substernal pain.

Learn more about bronchitis here.

Pneumonia is a common lung infection that causes air sacs in the lungs to inflame and fill with fluid. The medical term for these air sacs is alveoli.

Pneumonia can cause sharp chest pains, which a person may feel behind their sternum.

Other symptoms of pneumonia include.

• severe coughing
• shortness of breath
• fever
• sweating
• nausea and vomiting
• loss of appetite
• confusion

Infectious bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause pneumonia.

Learn more about pneumonia here.

Symptoms of sternum pain vary depending on the cause. The most common symptom is discomfort and pain in the center of the chest, which is the location of the sternum.

Other associated symptoms may include:

• pain or discomfort in the ribs
• pain that worsens during deep breathing or coughing
• mild, aching pain in the upper chest
• swelling in the upper chest
• stiffness in the shoulder joints
• severe pain when raising the arms
• signs of collarbone trauma, such as bruising or swelling
• difficulty breathing
• grinding or popping sensation in joints near the sternum
• frequent belching
• heartburn
• feeling too full
• throwing up blood

People experiencing chest pain may worry they are having a heart attack. However, sternum pain differs from heart attack pain.

People who are having a heart attack experience specific signs before the heart attack itself, whereas most sternum pain starts suddenly.

A heart attack often occurs with the following symptoms:

• pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest
• sweating
• nausea
• shortness of breath
• lightheadedness

However, anyone who thinks they are having a heart attack should seek immediate medical attention.

While sternum pain is not usually serious, there are some causes of sternum pain that require immediate medical attention.

A person should seek emergency medical attention if the pain:

• started as a result of direct trauma
• is accompanied by heart attack symptoms
• is persistent and does not improve over time
• is accompanied by intense vomiting or vomiting blood

A person should also speak to a doctor if the pain in their sternum gets worse or does not improve over time.

Physical trauma, costochondritis, and muscle strains are common causes of sternum pain.

Conditions such as pneumonia, pleurisy and GERD can also cause pain in nearby tissue that people may mistake for sternum pain.

Read the article in Spanish.

Chest pain in children

General information

Chest pain in a child is often associated by adults with heart problems . But in reality this is far from the case. Studies conducted in the United States have shown that in adolescents and young children, chest pain is not associated with heart disease in 99% of cases.

More than 3,700 children from Boston with heart pain, patients of the Boston Hospital participated in this study, and only 1% of them were found by doctors to have cardiovascular diseases. What are the real causes of chest pain in children and what to do about it?

You may be interested in: Chest pain when coughing Chest pain

Causes of chest pain in children

The study we wrote about above involved children whose average age was 14 years. In 99% of them, diseases of bone tissue were detected, as well as diseases:

• musculoskeletal system;

• digestive system;

• central nervous system (CNS).

Some children have had chest pains due to uncontrolled use of drugs that caused allergies . And only 1% of children experienced chest pain due to cardiovascular problems. Therefore, doctors strongly advise parents who have found chest pains in their children, first of all, to do an ECG.

This will immediately exclude the risk of cardiovascular disease or confirm heart problems. And then you need to navigate the picture of the disease. This will make it possible not to waste time on the use of drugs for cardiovascular ailments. This time will be useful to identify the real cause of chest pain in children. So, the true causes of chest pain in children can be:

• Psychogenic pain;

• skin lesions or diseases;

• pain in violation of the muscles;

• disorders of the respiratory system;

• cardiovascular diseases;

• lesions of the gastrointestinal tract.

First, you need to ask the child in detail where exactly the pain occurs, because young children very often indicate different places. Therefore, pain in the pit of the stomach, pointing to diseases of the digestive system , easily confused with chest pains – both parts of the body can be called breasts by a child. Also ask your child about the nature of the pain that worries him. Let’s look at each of the causes of chest pain in a child in more detail.

Pain due to skin diseases

Pain due to diseases or damage to the skin can disturb a child if he has herpes , or shingles. This disease tends to affect the skin rash sores or vesicles. And then the child complains of burning pains in the chest. They may be accompanied by fever or lymph nodes that are significantly enlarged.

Shingles , or herpes is a viral disease, which, moreover, is infectious, that is, it is transmitted from child to child. To cure him, you need to call the local doctor and follow the treatment regimen that he will prescribe.

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system

Chest pain in a child due to diseases of the musculoskeletal system can be quite strong and acute. Sources of pain can be changes in the vertebral processes after injury, pain due to cartilage lesions in the spine, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis. All these diseases lead to infringement of the nerve roots, and this is very painful. It is necessary to take the child to a rheumatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Diseases of the respiratory system

Chest pain in a child can most often occur due to injuries or inflammation of the lungs. This respiratory organ is surrounded by the pleura, the membrane that lines the chest cavity. When the pleura is inflamed, its sheets (it consists of sheets, very thin) rub against each other, and this causes severe chest pain in the child. They are very difficult to endure, the pain is even more intensified during deep breathing and can be given to the shoulder joint.

A child may experience similar pain when the inflammation of the lungs has worsened, the lungs are in serious condition, they are inflamed and affected by the virus. In this condition, self-medication is unacceptable. You need to immediately call a doctor and treat the child in a hospital, usually antibiotics .

Cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular chest pain in a child is one of the most dangerous types of pain. They can occur with various diseases of the heart and blood vessels, in particular, rheumatism , SARS (acute respiratory infections), which cause inflammation of the lining of the heart – the pericardium or inflamed heart muscles (the disease is called myocarditis ).

Cardiovascular diseases not associated with myocardial infarction or angina, can be recognized by dull and pulling pains, such pains can radiate (spread) to the neck or shoulder. If the heart and blood vessels are not normal, this is a great danger to the child. You need to consult a doctor immediately. He will prescribe treatment depending on the nature of the disease.

Diseases of the digestive system

Chest pain in children with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract can be very severe and indicate serious health problems. It could be congestion in the digestive tract, gas reflux disease (heartburn), inflammation of the esophagus, and poisoning by substances that can irritate the delicate lining of the esophagus or stomach.

Diseases of the digestive system, that cause pain in the child’s chest, may be a stomach or duodenal ulcer, a hernia of the esophagus, a foreign body that the child swallowed (for example, a bone). Such pains can be recognized by their nature: they become worse when swallowing, lying down or when the child leans forward. Accompanying symptoms – Difficulty swallowing Vomiting blood, black stools, and increased salivation.

Call an ambulance immediately and take the child to the hospital. First of all, he needs endoscopy of the esophagus (examination of the esophagus using computer diagnostics and a device called an endoscope). Then the doctor will prescribe treatment depending on what diseases the child suffers from.

Psychogenic chest pain

Psychogenic pain in the chest can begin if the child is not ill, but is experiencing a state of acute stress. Then muscle clamps appear in the chest, and the child complains of chest pains. The child can also worry about the condition of a person close to him, for example, his mother, and imitate chest pains that she suffers from. Psychogenic pains can be determined by the time they occur. As a rule, these pains disturb the child only in the state of wakefulness, and in the state of sleep or during the child’s passion for a game or an interesting book, the pain disappears.

The child should be given the opportunity to have more rest, play, be in the fresh air. If the chest pains do not go away, the child should be shown to a neuropathologist and a psychologist.

Sudden severe stabbing pain of unknown etiology may occur in a child, most often after a meal or during strong physical exertion . This pain may be accompanied by contractions in the chest area (attacks of pain), localized in the upper abdomen or lower chest. As a rule, such pain is more often localized on the right. The causes of such pain can be n tense ligaments between the abdominal membrane (peritoneum) and the diaphragm.

Pain of this nature in a child should go away after he rests and calms down. The child should lie down, the ligaments of the peritoneum will relax and then all the pain will pass.

Chest pain due to muscle problems can occur after injuries, muscle strains, bruises, and also due to viral infections in the muscles. The latter disease leads to inflammation of the muscles, which is called viral myalgia. It is characterized by the fact that the muscles of the child in the chest area become very painful, and this pain comes unexpectedly, it is strong, it is felt even when lightly pressed with fingers. The site of pain, as a rule, is only this one, there are no other deviations in the child’s condition.

For bruises and sprains, alternate heat and ice (15 minutes each). Warm compresses can be salt heated in a pan or a warm heating pad. You can also heat a woolen handkerchief on a warm radiator and attach it to the child’s sore chest.

If your chest hurts a lot, you can give something from an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, such as ibuprofen. You can also give your child panadol – it relieves pain and inflammation well.

Character of chest pain in child

If the pain increases with movement, it is most likely due to injury or muscle tension. It can also be muscle strain or inflammation. Parents should pay attention to these symptoms even if there are no bruises or other signs of injury on the child’s chest. An additional symptom is pain with light touch, breathing, coughing.

If the child’s chest pain is concentrated in only one area that hurts all the time, this may be the result of broken rib . Additional symptoms – a sharp pain when moving, touching, and this pain is in the area where the ribs are located. This pain doesn’t go anywhere else.

Severe and sharp pain in the child’s chest, as if behind the sternum, behind – this is a symptom of a sore throat or a cold. Such pain can be caused by a disease of the trachea, in particular, its inflammation. The microorganisms that cause angina and tracheitis are the same. An additional symptom in this disease is dry cough , pain aggravated by deep breathing.

Pain in the chest of a child in the form of a burning sensation that occurs after eating is a sign of a disease of the digestive system, in particular, of the stomach. This pain is caused by acid rising from the stomach back into the esophagus. There are children who especially often suffer from heartburn and high acidity. To avoid this condition, you do not need to overeat and bend over after eating, but sit straight. If these simple remedies do not work, you need to take the child to the doctor.

Pain in the child’s chest when coughing is a sign of a disease of the respiratory system, in particular pneumonia. If a child coughs often and for a long time, therefore, intercostal muscles can stretch in him, they become inflamed and hurt. The pain is aggravated by palpation of the chest. These pains will quickly pass as soon as the cough itself passes.

Whatever the pain in the child’s chest, do not lose sight of this symptom, because it can be a signal of serious illness. In order not to be convinced of the presence of these diseases in practice, you need to pay attention to them at an early stage in order to diagnose and treat them in time.

methods of treatment, diagnosis and causes of chest pain

Free appointment
and diagnostics

Pain relief
in 1-2 sessions

Author’s method
of treatment

Internships in the USA,
Israel, Germany

Chest pain – an ambiguous symptom. It can accompany stress or simple overwork, or it can serve as a signal for the development of a serious pathology of the lungs, esophagus, heart or blood vessels. It is impossible to start such symptoms, because the risk of complications is significant and can threaten the life of the patient. Diagnosis is carried out by complex methods and makes it possible to accurately determine the cause of pain in the chest region.

Causes of chest pain

The mildest case is chest pain due to emotional surges, indigestion, overwork or increased stress. Usually a short rest is enough to eliminate such symptoms.

Chest pain caused by injury or damage requires a visit to a traumatologist and an examination.

In addition, the following common causes of pain are noted:

• taking medications: antidepressants, estrogen-containing contraceptives;
• inflammation of the lungs, in which the chest compresses the nerve fibers, as well as the internal organs;
• intercostal neuralgia, discomfort due to pinching of nerve endings by the extremities of the bones of the ribs;
• thoracic osteochondrosis, a serious deformity of adjacent nerve endings, accompanied by chest pain. neck, back;
• thoracic or vertebral scoliosis, a curvature in which the compression of the internal organs increases;
• intervertebral hernia or protrusion, pinching of the nerve roots by a deformed intervertebral disc;
• angina pectoris, pain symptom of the region of the heart, constriction or burning, radiates to the neck, arm, jaw;
• tachycardia, heart rhythm disturbance due to increased excitability of the nervous system;
• myocardial infarction, an attack due to blockage of a blood artery supplying the heart, gives an attack of pain of both high and moderate intensity;
• pulmonary embolism, occlusion of the lumen by a thrombus, a consequence of a sedentary lifestyle.

Women’s chest pain

More than half of women have experienced chest pain at least once. This is due to the peculiarity of female anatomy and physiology. Chest pain accompanies the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding. The appearance of painful symptoms should not be ignored, since it can signal the development of pathological processes in the tissues of the organ.

A woman should see a specialist if she experiences the following symptoms of pain:

• no link to menstruation;
• accompanied by burning or pressure;
• increases over time;
• is felt only on one side or in a certain place;
• area of ​​increased pain has a fever;
• seal hurts;
• is accompanied by a change in the size or shape of the breast, color or quality of the skin;
• is accompanied by the release of fluid or blood from the nipple, the appearance of a depression on the areola;
• occurs at the site of a surgical site scar;
• lasts over a week;
• limits the mobility of the arm, body;
• reduces the quality of life, interferes with sleep, work.

Localization of chest pain and possible causes of its occurrence

Localization	Description	Diagnostics	Possible causes
Central chest pain	Accompanied by shortness of breath, fluctuations in pulse and pressure, lung murmurs, wheezing. Character of sensations: sharp, dull, aching, burning, squeezing pain	Short-term discomfort may be associated with permanent stress or overwork. Prolonged pain is a sign of serious illness. Based on the patient’s complaints, the doctor prescribes a series of examinations, tests, x-rays and others	development of oncological neoplasms; deformities of blood vessels or cardiac arteries; ischemic heart disease; myocardial infarction; lesions of the nervous system; digestive problems.
Right chest pain	The pain is severe, drawing, prolonged. Most often it is the result of pathologies of internal organs or injuries	Accurate diagnosis possible after ECG or thoracic ultrasound	infection or inflammation of the gallbladder; diseases of the genitourinary or reproductive systems; renal failure, hepatitis, pancreatitis; spinal injury, disc displacement.
Left chest pain	Severe pain, occurs during physical exertion, movement, may be accompanied by cough, radiate to other organs	Blood test, x-ray, ultrasound	pathology of the spleen, possible rupture; pleurisy, tuberculosis, pneumothorax; arrhythmia, angina pectoris, ischemic disease; thoracic sciatica, osteochondrosis; spondylosis, scoliosis, arthrosis.

Free medical consultation and diagnostics

• Chiropractor
• Vertebrologist
• Osteopath
• Neurologist

At the consultation, we carry out a thorough diagnosis. As a result of the consultation
We give detailed recommendations for treatment and, if necessary, prescribe additional diagnostics.

1

Carry out functional diagnostics

2

Let’s perform a manipulation that significantly relieves pain

3

We will create an individual treatment program

Sign up for a free appointment

Diagnostic tests

Diagnosis of pain is important for making a correct diagnosis and developing ways for optimal patient treatment. Comprehensive diagnostics of chest pains includes the following procedures:

• conducting clinical laboratory tests, urine and blood tests of the patient;
• radiography, a widely available study that allows you to quickly and reliably establish the pathology of the respiratory and digestive systems;
• computed tomography, obtaining a detailed three-dimensional image of the area under study, revealing problems in tissues and organs;
• electrocardiography, information about the functionality of the heart muscle, heart rate;
• echocardiography, an ultrasound method of cardiac diagnostics, reveals valve problems;
• spirometry, pulmonological examination of the patient’s lungs;
• blood lipidogram, a study aimed at calculating the fat content that affects the activity of the heart and blood vessels.

With initial complaints, it is recommended to make an appointment with a general practitioner, a general practitioner. If specific symptoms are identified, the patient will be referred to a specialized specialist.

Treatment of chest pain

Based on the diagnosis, the exact cause of chest pain is determined. The diagnosis is decisive in the development of a therapy strategy by the attending physician. If violations of the activity of the cardiac system are detected, then the cardiologist will deal with the patient’s further treatment, the pulmonologist will deal with respiratory topics, and the problems of the digestive tract will be the field of activity of the gastroenterologist.

Comprehensive therapy will consist of:

• medication according to the disease profile;
• hardware physiotherapy;
• physiotherapy exercises; according to the indications – surgical intervention.

It is possible to place a patient in a hospital, to improve the quality of procedures or surgery.

Prevention of chest pain

In order to avoid painful discomfort in the chest area, it is recommended to follow the following advice from specialists:

• Increase your daily physical activity, exercise, walk more, take up a sport as recommended by your doctor;
• Maintain normal body weight, fight obesity, eat in moderation, eliminate fatty, fried or high-calorie foods from the diet;
• Monitor important indicators of the body: cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar;
• Avoid stress, overexertion, high fatigue;
• Take care of a balanced daily menu or include foods rich in useful microelements and vitamins in your diet;
• Give up destructive bad habits: smoking, alcohol;
• Attend preventive examinations by a doctor, undergo an annual medical examination.

People with experience of chest pains, serious chronic or hereditary diseases should be especially attentive to their health.

Chest pain: modern treatment in Moscow

The experienced specialists of our clinic in Moscow have been providing effective treatment for chest pain of various origins for many years, restoring health to the most severe patients who were denied help by other specialists or medical institutions. A guaranteed positive result is a logical result of an innovative approach that combines classical methods of therapy proven by practice, as well as innovative achievements of modern medicine in the field of chest pain treatment. The professional arsenal of doctors of the clinic is rich and varied. It contains a huge number of rehabilitation and recovery programs, and is also systematically updated with the most effective and progressive methods. Our doctors are constantly adopting the best practices of leading experts in this field, leaving for training, seminars, conferences in leading clinics in Israel, the USA, Germany.

Patients of our clinic are given the opportunity to visit a doctor’s consultation free of charge, conduct a comprehensive diagnosis, and draw up a preliminary treatment plan. High efficiency and positive impact are noted from the first sessions of therapy. Patients state a decrease, as well as the complete disappearance of painful discomfort.

Call and register for a free appointment with a specialist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is more likely to experience chest pain?

At risk are people of retirement age who are overweight, have recently undergone surgery, have arterial hypertension, arrhythmias or chronic lung diseases, smokers, pregnant women, alcoholics, cancer patients, and also take certain medications.

When is chest pain a deadly symptom?

The most dangerous signs are:

• severe pain sensation lasting more than five minutes;
• burning pain behind the sternum extending to the shoulders, neck or back;
• chest pain with tightness or pressure;
• concomitant palpitations, shortness of breath, shortness of breath;
• pain resulting in increased weakness, dizziness, sweating, nausea or vomiting.

In this case, it is recommended to call an ambulance immediately.

What conditions can cause chest pain in women?

In addition to pregnancy, menopause or a number of other physiological causes, chest pain in women may be associated with dangerous diseases that require urgent contact with specialized specialists:

• Mastopathy. The formation of seals in organ tissues. It is treated medically or surgically;
• Cystosis. The appearance of neoplasms. The risk of rupture is dangerous, planned treatment is indicated;
• Benign tumor. Risk of malignant transformation. Constant pulling pain and discomfort;
• Mastitis. Inflammatory disease caused by hormonal disruptions or violations of the course of breastfeeding of an infant;
• Breast cancer. An oncological disease that poses a serious threat to life.

Material checked by an expert

Marshenin Konstantin Vladimirovich

Chief physician. Neurologist, chiropractor, vertebrologist, psychoneurologist, doctor of the highest qualification category

Work experience – 22 years

Video reviews of patients

Joint block in the neck

Hernia in the lower back and neck

I came to Dr. Lenght’s clinic with spinal problems. With two intervertebral lower hernias and two intervertebral hernias in the neck. I was assigned a comprehensive 10 step program. In 4 months, my lower vertebrae completely disappeared and crunches in my neck disappeared …

Hernia of the lumbosacral region

“After the first time, my back stopped hurting. I felt relieved. Now 7 sessions have already passed and the back really does not hurt. I began to forget about it. And at first it hurt a lot.”

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve

“For 4 months I suffered from severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve on the right side. After the first visit, relief came immediately within six hours. After 6 courses, the pain was almost gone.

Pain in the lower back and leg

Yakovleva Natalya Mikhailovna
Head of the department, surgeon of the highest category, oncologist-mammologist
I want to express my deep gratitude for the fact that I was put on my feet in the truest sense of the word. I came to the clinic a month and a half ago with severe pain in the lower back and leg. These complaints were long enough and the treatment that I used in the past was ineffective. Fortunately, I ended up in the clinic of Dr. Length and his team of super professionals!

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

“I applied 2 months ago with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. I have a sedentary job and my neck muscles were very cramped. It was impossible to work. Before that, I went to other doctors, but this did not solve my problem. For 2 months I have a fairly positive dynamics. Every week it gets better and better.”

Bechterew’s disease

“I’ve had Bechterew’s disease for 10 years. The vertebrae began to move out, I began to slouch. I turned to other chiropractors, very famous, media ones. In the end, I didn’t get any results. After 2 sessions I felt much better. Now I don’t have any pain.”

Pain in the spine

“I came in with problems in my back, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. I was prescribed procedures, had a massage, and was assigned to do physical education at home. This made it much easier for me. I’m already turning my head. I have no pain.”

Shoulder shoulder periarthrosis

I went to the clinic with severe pain in my shoulder. My hand did not rise, I could not sleep at night, I woke up from pain. After the first treatment session, I felt much better. Somewhere in the middle of the course, my hand began to rise, I began to sleep at night.

Osteoarthritis of the knee joint, 2nd degree

Came in with a very serious illness. I could not walk, I have arthrosis of the 2nd degree of the knee joint. I went through a course of treatment at the Clinic and now I am going 100%.

Herniated disc

“I came to the clinic after I had back pain and it turned out to be a herniated disc. I went to other places, but they only relieved attacks of pain. Hope for a return to normal life was given only by Sergei Vladimirovich, his golden hands!

Scoliosis

“Since I was a teenager, I have suffered from scoliosis in the thoracic region. I felt a feeling of discomfort, tension, periodic pain in the spine. I turned to various specialists, a massage therapist, an osteopath, but I did not feel a strong effect. After treatment, Length S.V. I almost have a straight spine. Currently, I do not feel any problems and discomfort.”

Intervertebral hernia

“At the 5th-6th session there was an improvement. I felt much better. The pain is gone. Improvement progressed more and more each time. Lesson 10 today. I feel great.”

Pain in the lumbar and cervical region

“I am 21 years old. I went to the clinic with discomfort in the lumbar and cervical region. I also sometimes had sharp pains. After undergoing therapy, I felt a significant improvement in my back. I have no pain. The condition as a whole has improved.”

Pain in the back

“At the beginning of the path of therapy, my back hurt very badly. I could no longer walk. I take 5 steps and stop. My entire journey consisted of such stops. In the very first procedure, I left the office with no pain in my spine.”

Cervical hernia

“I came in with a problem in my neck and my right arm was very sore. The neck did not turn, the hand did not rise. After the 3rd session, I felt better. After the 5th, all this pain began to decrease. It turns out I have 2 hernias in my cervical vertebrae. After the sessions, I did an MRI and one hernia decreased. Now he began to move, his hand earned.

Pain in the neck

“I went to Dr. Long because I had a very bad pain in my neck on the right side. I fell on a snowboard 5 years ago, even went to an osteopath, but somehow it didn’t really help. Now everything is fine, there are some consequences left, the muscles were spasmodic. When I came, I had steel muscles, now my neck is very soft.”

Pain in the thoracic region

“I came to the clinic with back pain, namely in the thoracic region. After 10 sessions of treatment, I could already calmly go about my usual business, stay at work until lunch, without howling in pain. Now I’ve come back for an adjustment after 2 months. I’m fine, my back doesn’t hurt.”

Hernia and protrusion

“I came to the clinic with L4-L5 hernia and L5-S1 protrusion. Today the course of treatment has ended. Lower back hurt, it was difficult to bend down. After completing the course and receiving instructions in the form of physical exercises, it became much easier. After a month of treatment, I do not feel any stiffness of movements. ”

Pain in the lower back and hip joint

“From a young age I was troubled by back pain. When they became unbearable, I went to Dr. Length’s clinic. Already after the first procedure, the pain in the hip joint was gone. After the third procedure, the shooting pains in the lower back stopped.

Applying today will help

avoid surgery tomorrow!

Relieve pain and inflammation

After 2-3 treatments, the exhausting pain goes away and you feel better.

Eliminate the cause of the disease

Comprehensive joint rehabilitation improves well-being: you feel a surge of strength and energy.

Let’s start the regeneration process

The process of repairing damaged tissues begins. Inflammation and swelling go away.

Prevention of complications

To avoid complications, contact Dr.