What Causes Pain In Sternum Radiating Towards Upper Arms And Back?

Posted on Tue, 17 Jun 2014

Question: When I lay down to sleep, my sternum hurts, the pain goes to my upper arms and around to my back, and my lower teeth. I sleep sitting up in a chair. This has been going on for about 12 days. I noticed yesterday when I moved a heavy piece of furniture it hurt. I have not been diagnosed with angina or any heart issues. I am not over weight as I recently lost 83 pounds, I am white, female, age 71, with no health issues except mile high blood pressure take a 2.5 mg pill each day. I have lost a significant amount of height in the last two years.

Answered by Dr. Kerry Pottinger (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Possible acid reflux.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
From your description, I think you may be suffering from acid reflux. This produces the type of pain your describe and it is often worse when lying in bed.
There are certain measures you can try and if these help then it is likely that it is reflux.
Certain foods may trigger the pain such as spicy or fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol and smoking. Raising the head of your bed may help rather than sleeping in a chair and may be more comfortable. Eat small regular meals and have your evening meal at least 3 hours before bedtime. Try an over the counter antacid from your pharmacist. PPIs also help and these would be prescribed by your doctor.
I suggest you consult your doctor as I think you should your heart checked if you haven't done so recently. The pain you describe in relation to moving furniture could be angina although I note you say you do not suffer from this.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB. FRCA

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar