What Causes Squeezing Pain Right Below Sternum?

Posted on Wed, 9 Sep 2015

Question: I have this squeezing pain right below sterum. It last like 1 second then goes away. I've had it since I was 19. Now 32. It's completely random. Sometimes goes months without happening. Sometimes several times a day. I've had all heart test done and they have found nothing. However it's never happened while at a dr or during a test. When it happens if I feel my pulse it stops for a second or 2. Worried

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice...

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking!
i read your query very carefully and understood your concerns.

You are experiencing palpitations which are felt as chest discomfort or pain that last a few seconds. Since you have done all cardiac test (ecg, echo, holter and stress test), which didn't find anything abnormal you shouldn't worry.

Palpitations in patients with a normal heart aren't harmful and shouldn't worry about them. These palpitations may be caused from:
- Thyroid hormone imbalance (hyperthyrosis)
- GERD (acid reflux disease) and other gastrointestinal issues
- Anxiety and stress related

If you were my patient I would suggest to do:
- Thyroid hormone levels
- Abdominal echo
- Avoid caffeine, energy drink, carbonated drink
- Avoid drinking Alcohol
- Avoid unnecessary stress
- Increase physical activity
- Use chamomile tea.

These measures will help to diagnose what is causing your symptoms and to avoid those symptoms.

Hope this was of help!
Wish you health!
Dr. Shehu

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