What Causes Swelling And Pain In Left Lower Sternum Area?

Posted on Thu, 16 Apr 2015

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

Thu, 16 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 14 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My back left lower sternum is swollen and hurts to touch?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Need more information

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

Please specify the area , back and sternum or back of sternum ?
Is there any history of trauma with this swelling ?
For how long has this swelling / pain been there and is this the first episode ?
What medications are you currently taking, please enlist them.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (21 minutes later)

Thank you

No prior injury
Pain 2 days
Bone along lowest part of sternum to the extrme left swollen to touch
Vitamins, claritin, benadryl, exlax

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Possible costochondritis, rule out cardiac cause

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Based on your description, costochondritis appears to be the most likely diagnosis. However , in such a presentation , with chest pain, an EKG should be done primarily to rule out any cardiac pathology. An X ray chest should be done to rule out a pneumothorax. These measures are especially critical if there is accompanying shortness of breath, hypotension and haemodynamically related confusion. If these causes are ruled out then NSAIDs can be prescribed for treating costochondritis, in consult with your doctor.

Let me know if you have any other query

Thanks.

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj