What Causes Squeezing Pain Right Below Sternum?

Posted on Wed, 19 Aug 2015

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

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 Answered on

Wed, 9 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

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

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