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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Severe Pain In The Sternum?

My brother went to the hospital by ambulance with severe pain in the area of his sternum. Pain also presented in his back parallel to the sternum. Very painful to get out of bed. After MANY heart tests (EKG, nuclear stress, angioplasty, normal blood pressure) he was told there was no problem with his heart. After emergency treatment for pain and many blood tests, no diagnosis was offered. He had a 102 temp. Upon arrival and was treated with IV antibiotics and his temp returned to normal. He has had problems with GERD and takes Prilosec (generic) and did develop diarrhea after laxatives. Pain has subsided without heavy pain killers. He is now home but we are baffled with no diagnosis.
Thu, 11 Oct 2018
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi,

As your history mentions that pain subsided after taking Prilosec which in itself indicates that it is due to acid reflux from the stomach. Acid reflux which is due to gastroesophageal reflux disease causes pain in the chest which is often misdiagnosed as heart pain or angina. There is nothing to worry and this condition is common among the general population. All it needs dietary modification and lifestyle changes.

My suggestions to your brother are:
- If he is a smoker then ask him to stop it. Otherwise, he will never return to normal.
- Limit consumption of citrus fruits and coffee.
- Take light meals particularly in the night or evening hours.
- If he is stressed or anxious give him support and ask him to relax.

Rest he can continue with the medication which doctor has prescribed and there is nothing to worry.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Soheel Hussain Zargar,
Dentist
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What Causes Severe Pain In The Sternum?

Hi, As your history mentions that pain subsided after taking Prilosec which in itself indicates that it is due to acid reflux from the stomach. Acid reflux which is due to gastroesophageal reflux disease causes pain in the chest which is often misdiagnosed as heart pain or angina. There is nothing to worry and this condition is common among the general population. All it needs dietary modification and lifestyle changes. My suggestions to your brother are: - If he is a smoker then ask him to stop it. Otherwise, he will never return to normal. - Limit consumption of citrus fruits and coffee. - Take light meals particularly in the night or evening hours. - If he is stressed or anxious give him support and ask him to relax. Rest he can continue with the medication which doctor has prescribed and there is nothing to worry. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Soheel Hussain Zargar, Dentist