What Causes Discomfort At The Side Of The Sternum?

Posted on Thu, 29 Dec 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 Answered on

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : hi there when i belch i have a slight discomfort on the right side of my sternum... also when i swallow there is a dull pain it began last night what could this be ?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Klerida Shehu (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
please follow below eplanations

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking on HCM!

I read carefully all your concerns and I can say as follows:

1. Your symptoms may be related with:
- GERD ( acid reflux)
- esophagitis
2. To my opinion you need to be examined with upper endoscopy to better evaluate stomach and esophageal mucosa.
3. Meantime I would suggest to:
- use PPI's like prilosec OTC
- use antacids like gaviscon
- avoid coffee, chocolate and soft drinks
- avoid alcohol and smoking
- eat often and small amount of meal
- eat 3-4 hours before going to bed
- use two pillows when you lay down
- avoid unnecessary stress

Hope it was helpful to you!
Dr. Klerida

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