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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Pressure And Swelling Under The Sternum While Suffering From COPD?

Hello, my issue and concerns are due to my COPD, and quiet frankly stated...I have alcohol issues. I am having issues with swelling and pressure beneath my breast bone/sternum causing SOB with a plus a plus rate of at times 110-120....BP can escalate from in the 139/95 range to 183/129 (scary) my O2 ranges from 89-93, am on O2 @ 2 liters per min, Albuterol sulfate (pro air inhaler) every 4 hrs or as per needed, also nebuliser treatments 2x daily...those issues don t seem to fall inline with what issues I have with the pain in my sternum..other than pressure I can deal with SOB until I do the slightest ADL s then my plus rate and SOB sky rockets... no PCP right now.....any ideas
Tue, 15 Sep 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello
I have gone through your question and understand your concern. COPD increases the risk of heart disease my advice, is to take echocardiogram and ECG as soon as possible. Shortness of breath is the common symptom for COPD and heart failure, pressure and discomfort in breast bone along with high blood pressure suggest heart disease.
If the symptoms of chest discomfort increases even before the test reports arrive, seek medical help immediately. Good luck. Hope your concern is answered. Thank you.
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What Causes Pressure And Swelling Under The Sternum While Suffering From COPD?

Hello I have gone through your question and understand your concern. COPD increases the risk of heart disease my advice, is to take echocardiogram and ECG as soon as possible. Shortness of breath is the common symptom for COPD and heart failure, pressure and discomfort in breast bone along with high blood pressure suggest heart disease. If the symptoms of chest discomfort increases even before the test reports arrive, seek medical help immediately. Good luck. Hope your concern is answered. Thank you.