Any deviation from the norm causes reasonable concern in a person. So, unexpectedly a lump may form on the skin, which is often accompanied by unpleasant sensations and pain. The lower chest is the most common site for hernias.
There are many reasons why a tubercle forms, but most often it is explained by the presence of a hernia of the xiphoid process. In this article we will look at the symptoms and treatment of inflammation of the xiphoid process, as well as methods for diagnosing the disease.
xiphoid process
In the middle of the chest there is a small process that projects downwards. Because of its shape it is called xiphoid. In infants, it is a dense cartilage and is not connected to the sternum.
Until the age of thirty, the tissues of the appendix gradually harden, and after 30 years they begin to grow into the bones. The shape and size of the formation can vary greatly. The process sometimes has a small hole in the middle or has a forked top. It can be blunt or acute.
Location and functions of the xiphoid process
The xiphoid process (shown in the photo) is the lowest, smallest part of the chest. At first the formation is small, cartilaginous, triangular in shape. Then it gradually ossifies and fuses with the sternum. The process is located below its body and is attached using a fibrous connection. You can find the xiphoid formation by running your hand along the sternum - from the neck down to the end of the bones. The last one will be the shoot.
This is an important point of muscle attachment and is involved in the breathing process. The xiphoid formation connects the transverse and rectus abdominis muscles. During cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the appendix is used as a reference to determine the position for (indirect) cardiac massage. In this case, it is very important not to exceed the permissible pressure on the xiphoid formation, otherwise a puncture of the liver or sternum diaphragm may occur.
What does it mean if pain occurs when pressing on the appendix?
If the area of the xiphoid process of the sternum hurts when pressed, this may indicate the presence of a number of diseases or damage to nearby internal organs:
- stomach;
- hearts;
- lungs;
- gallbladder;
- pancreas.
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Exercises for children to develop good posture In this case, pain occurs not only when pressing, but also with any slight strain or snacking. Other reasons for the appearance of a negative symptom:
- Rib sliding cartilage, which appears after serious injuries. At first, a person experiences severe pain in the sternum, then it becomes dull and appears only when there is pressure on the appendage. If treatment is not started in time, an inflammatory process may begin.
- Gastrointestinal diseases (stomach ulcers, gastritis, etc.) are accompanied by inflammatory processes. They can affect fatty tissue and the chest. In this case, additional symptoms appear in the form of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or heartburn.
If pain occurs when pressing on the xiphoid process, it is important to pay attention to other associated negative signs. This is important for correct diagnosis.
Associated symptoms
Painful sensations in the chest area may be accompanied by the appearance of a lump.
If the xiphoid process of the sternum has increased, you should not leave this alarming sign unnoticed. It may indicate the development of quite a large number of diseases.
A protruding xiphoid process is most often accompanied by pain, but there are other symptoms:
- heartburn, nausea and vomiting, if the provoking factor is disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system;
- the appearance of a lump in the chest area;
- when palpating, the contents of the hernial sac are clearly felt if the provoking factor is a hernia;
- the process slowly or rapidly increases in size, pronounced protrusion is observed;
- pain when pressed.
The clinical picture may be mild or practically absent, but a visit to the doctor cannot be postponed.
Causes of xiphoid pain
The lower part of the sternum is covered by a fibrous plate. If it is not there, then the process may protrude somewhat. When pressure is applied to it, pain appears. Their causes can be various factors and diseases.
Pathologies and injuries
The pain may be caused by inflammation of the xiphoid process of the sternum. At the same time, when pressed, the sensations become stronger. Pain is also caused by a number of diseases:
- chondropathy;
- benign and cancerous neoplasms;
- osteochondrosis;
- hernias;
- diseases of any organs located near the xiphoid process;
- pathologies of the cardiovascular system.
Pain occurs when muscles are torn due to a strong blow. Injuries cause fractures and bruises. In this case, the pain can be very intense and intensify with breathing, sudden movements or coughing. After injury, negative feelings persist for a long time.
Hernia of the xiphoid process
When the xiphoid process thickens (bulges out), the pain may be caused by a hernia. It usually appears as a result of injury or is inherited. The xiphoid formation may have several openings, normally closed by a fibrous plate.
If it is absent, a series of holes penetrates elements of nearby organs or fatty tissue. As a result, a pre-abdominal lipoma is formed. A true hernia of the appendix occurs rarely. It is characterized by bulging of the xiphoid formation and pain in the sternum. On palpation, the hard edges of the hernia and the contents of its sac are felt. The disease is treated with a simple surgical operation.
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Tietze syndrome
Tietze syndrome can appear for no reason or as a result of:
- calcium deficiency;
- metabolic disorders;
- diseases of muscles and joints;
- hypovitaminosis;
- age-related changes;
- excessive loads;
- infections.
Tietze syndrome is an aseptic inflammation of cartilage tissue. It is characterized by pain at the junction of the chest bones and the upper ribs. Negative sensations can radiate to the appendix and occur when pressure is applied to it.
Slipping rib syndrome
Slipping rib syndrome is a condition in which pain occurs at the tips of the ribs or where they connect to the chest. Negative sensations intensify when pressure is applied to the xiphoid process. The disease appears due to recurrent subluxation of the cartilage. This leads to rib sliding (its excessive mobility). Then the bone touches the nerve, which causes pain.
Abdominal problems
They can appear as a result of diseases of the internal organs located in the peritoneum. In this case, the pain does not have a clear localization. It intensifies after pressing on the process. Diseases of the peritoneal organs include:
- pancreatitis;
- diseases of the esophagus;
- stomach ulcer;
- cholecystitis;
- gastritis.
Gastrointestinal pathologies can be distinguished from musculoskeletal pathologies in the presence of additional symptoms - nausea and vomiting, belching, heartburn. Sometimes constipation occurs. For diagnosis, a blood test is taken and an ultrasound is performed.
Thoracic osteochondrosis
Pain in the area of the xiphoid process can cause thoracic osteochondrosis, as well as hernias and protrusions of intervertebral discs. They gradually lose their elasticity. As a result, the tissues begin to bulge, compressing the nerve fibers, causing pain. It depends on the direction and size of the protrusion.
Other reasons
Other causes of pain in the xiphoid process include diseases of the respiratory organs - tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchitis. Negative sensations sometimes arise due to benign and cancerous tumors, vascular pathologies, and fibromyalgia. The cause may be abnormal development (aplasia of the process) or xiphodynia (hypersensitivity of the xiphoid formation).
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Pain may occur due to heart disease, in particular angina. During flatulence, gases create excess pressure. It also affects the xiphoid process, since the top of the colon is nearby.
Natural changes in the breasts during pregnancy
Immediately after conception, the mammary glands begin to prepare for breastfeeding:
4-6 weeks
Under the influence of increased concentrations of estrogen and progesterone, additional lobes are formed in the mammary glands, and adipose tissue grows. As a result, the breasts increase (often by several sizes), which may be accompanied by pain reminiscent of pain before menstruation.
6-8 weeks
Breast tissue stretches due to softening of cartilage and ligaments, which causes the formation of stretch marks, increasing the sensitivity of the nipples and causing pain. Increased nipple sensitivity is often accompanied by itching, burning, and tingling.
Blood flow to the mammary glands increases, which causes the formation of a vascular network. The nipples and the area around them swell and darken, and cracks may form.
12-24 weeks
Montgomery tubercles appear on the areolas (they look like white “pimples”), secreting fatty lubricant.
The uterus grows and puts pressure on the diaphragm, which causes the organs of the chest cavity to shift. This may cause discomfort in the chest area and difficulty breathing.
24-36 weeks
Colostrum is produced. Usually this process begins in the third semester, but sometimes colostrum is released throughout the pregnancy.
Treatment
If pain occurs, you should consult a therapist. He will prescribe a series of tests and refer you for instrumental diagnostics, and, if necessary, for consultation with a gastroenterologist, traumatologist, surgeon or other specialists.
The xiphoid process is examined using:
- x-ray;
- Ultrasound;
- MRI;
- ECG;
- FGDS.
Drugs are prescribed to eliminate symptoms (analgesics, antispasmodics, etc.). For musculoskeletal diseases, anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs, chondroprotectors, corticosteroids, and muscle relaxants are indicated. For severe pain, anesthetic blockades are placed. After eliminating the main symptoms, physiotherapy is prescribed.
If the cause of pain in the appendix is gastrointestinal pathology, then treatment is accompanied by a diet. Moreover, in case of chronic diseases, you need to adhere to it all your life. The treatment of cardiovascular pathologies includes cardiological and blood pressure-normalizing drugs. Some need to be taken for life.
To eliminate pain in the area of the appendix, you can apply ice wrapped in soft cloth there. With xyphoidalgia, it is prohibited to do traction and straightening of the spine, exercise therapy.
Surgeries are performed only in cases where there is a threat to life or severe, prolonged pain. When treating a slipped rib, the diseased portion of the bone is removed. The reason for the operation is the presence of a large hernia.
Diagnosis and treatment
Carrying out fibrogastroscopy
The doctor will collect anamnesis and conduct a visual examination. Next, a list of diagnostic measures is prescribed, based on the results of which it is possible to make a diagnosis and identify the provoking factor.
Laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods used:
- fibrogastroscopy;
- radiography;
- electrocardiogram;
- CT scan;
- general blood and urine analysis;
- Magnetic resonance imaging;
- ultrasonography.
The treatment regimen depends on the severity of the disease and the provoking factor.
Drug therapy
Painkiller
Treatment with medications can relieve symptoms, reduce the inflammatory process and improve the general condition of the sick person. The standard drug therapy regimen includes the following groups of drugs:
- painkillers: Baralgin, Ketanov, Indomethacin;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Ortofen, Ibuprofen, Movalis;
- chondroprotectors: Chondroxide, Structum, Chondrol;
- muscle relaxants: Mydocalm, Sibazon, Mefedol;
- corticosteroids: Diprospan, Hydrocortisone, Celeston.
If the development of the disease was facilitated by disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, the doctor will additionally prescribe a list of medications based on the overall clinical picture.
Folk recipes
Garlic and vodka compresses are used as a folk remedy.
For a faster recovery and lasting results of therapy, you can use folk remedies, but only with the permission of a doctor and under his supervision. If the xiphoid process protrudes, but does not hurt, the following medicinal compositions are prescribed:
- Compress. To prepare the composition you will need 0.6 kg of garlic and 300 ml of vodka. The garlic is crushed and poured with liquid. Shake the tincture well and place it in a cool, dark place for 10-12 days. The product is generously moistened with gauze or a bandage and applied to the affected area. The duration of the procedure is 1 hour.
- Salty water. A simple but effective recipe that helps reduce pain. For cooking you need 1 tsp. salt and a glass of clean water. Mix the ingredients and soak a piece of gauze. Wring out the rag a little, put it in a bag and put it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Apply to the affected area. Leave on the body until completely dry.
It is impossible to completely eliminate the likelihood of developing the disease, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle - proper nutrition, adequate sleep and the absence of stressful situations - will help reduce the risks.
Prevention
Prevention has a general and specific nature. In the first case, it is recommended:
- healthy eating;
- constant physical activity;
- eliminating stress;
- maintain a sleep schedule;
- rejection of bad habits;
- compliance with the diet.
For specific prevention, doctors' instructions are followed. These include maintenance medications, avoiding heavy exercise, and following a diet. Additionally, physiotherapy is prescribed. Congenital abnormal structure of the chest requires constant monitoring.
Pain in the area of the xiphoid process can often indicate the presence of diseases. If you have this symptom, you should consult a doctor. Self-medication is unacceptable, since only a comprehensive diagnosis can identify the cause of pain.
Burning behind the sternum
Gastritis
Ulcer
Pancreatitis
29751 May 28
IMPORTANT!
The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-treatment.
In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, diagnostic tests should be prescribed only by the attending physician. To make a diagnosis and properly prescribe treatment, you should contact your doctor. Burning sensation behind the sternum: causes of occurrence, what diseases it occurs with, diagnosis and treatment methods.
Definition
A burning sensation behind the sternum is a symptom characteristic of many diseases - this is how patients with pathologies of the cardiovascular system, spine, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, neuralgia and panic attacks describe their sensations.
In some cases, this symptom is not dangerous, but some pathological conditions require immediate medical attention.
Types of burning behind the sternum
There is no generally accepted classification of burning behind the sternum. When patients are asked about their sensations, they talk about pressing, pulling, stabbing, burning, and encircling pain.
Thus, the burning sensation is as varied as the causes that cause it.
Possible causes of burning behind the sternum
Burning in the sternum, a feeling of fullness and heaviness, especially in older people, can be a symptom of serious cardiac problems, and all of them equally require seeking medical help.
In diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the burning sensation is usually diffuse, often radiating to the back. In many patients it occurs during or after eating.
Disruption of the musculoskeletal system often leads to unpleasant sensations in the chest. The burning sensation intensifies when inhaling or exhaling, and changes when changing body position.
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine can cause numbness in the hands and decreased sensitivity.
Neuroses and panic attacks are often accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest.
When the neuroendocrine regulation of internal organs is disrupted, patients complain of a burning sensation behind the sternum. The cause may be either insufficient maturity of the body's systems during adolescence, or previous infectious diseases, stress, bad habits, or overwork. Short-term vasospasm directly leads to the appearance of unpleasant sensations in the heart area. The attacks pass at rest and are accompanied by weakness, rapid heartbeat, and cold hands due to deterioration of blood flow.
Diseases leading to a burning sensation behind the sternum
Cardiovascular pathologies:
- Angina pectoris. Impaired blood circulation in the vessels of the heart due to atherosclerosis leads to deterioration in the nutrition of the heart muscle. During physical activity or anxiety, the heart requires more oxygen - if there is not enough oxygen, then the first signal will be discomfort in the chest area. A burning sensation, a feeling of squeezing, a tingling sensation can radiate (radiate) to the left arm, under the shoulder blade, rarely to the lower jaw, lasting no more than 15 minutes and passing with rest and after taking nitroglycerin.
- Myocardial infarction.
During a heart attack, a sharp disruption of the blood supply to the heart muscle occurs due to blockage of most of the lumen of the vessel supplying the heart by thrombotic masses. Most often, intense pain occurs, but a strong burning sensation in the chest may also be present. The attack lasts a long time, is not relieved by nitroglycerin, does not go away with rest, and is accompanied by shortness of breath, severe weakness, and decreased vision. Myocardial infarction is a life-threatening condition, so the patient needs urgent hospitalization. - A sharp rise in blood pressure may occur with a burning sensation in the chest. During a hypertensive crisis, the patient feels weakness, headache, dizziness, nausea, spots appear before the eyes and tinnitus.
- Inflammatory processes in the heart can also be manifested by a burning sensation in the chest. Typically, this condition is preceded by an infectious disease, most often of viral origin, or a severe bruise in the chest area. Unpleasant sensations can spread to the right or left side and intensify with changes in body position.
- A very dangerous condition is pulmonary embolism.
It occurs if blood clots are present in the vessels of the lower extremities - when they break off, they rise up the bloodstream and clog the pulmonary vessels. In addition to a burning sensation behind the sternum, the patient is bothered by severe shortness of breath, coughing (sometimes with blood), and severe cyanosis appears. In such a situation, emergency hospitalization is necessary. At risk are patients with varicose veins, smokers, and patients on the first day after surgery.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract:
- Esophageal pathology is considered perhaps the most common cause of burning in the chest. It occurs as a result of the reflux of acidic gastric contents into the esophagus, which leads to damage to its mucous membrane. A burning sensation appears after eating food (especially spicy, fatty, smoked and fried), when wearing tight belts and taking a horizontal position immediately after eating.
- Inflammatory processes in the pancreas and gall bladder are often accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest. This symptom appears a couple of hours after eating and may be accompanied by nausea and heaviness in the stomach.
Respiratory diseases:
In case of inflammation of the bronchi or lungs (bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy), in addition to coughing and fever, the patient may be bothered by a burning sensation in the chest.
In addition, diseases characterized by a burning sensation behind the sternum include intercostal neuralgia, osteochondrosis, intercostal myositis, and vegetative-vascular dystonia.
Which doctors should I contact if I have a burning sensation in the chest?
If a burning sensation behind the sternum is accompanied by a sharp deterioration in condition, weakness, an increase in pain, shortness of breath, coughing, or dizziness, you must immediately call an ambulance.
In other cases, you should also not postpone your visit to the doctor. Since this symptom has many causes, it is advisable to first turn to. He will prescribe examinations and, if necessary, refer to other specialists: a cardiologist; gastroenterologist; pulmonologist; neurologist.
Diagnosis and examinations for burning sensation behind the sternum
Making a diagnosis begins with a thorough history taking into account all the patient’s complaints and a physical examination.
To exclude cardiovascular pathology, first of all, a chest x-ray or CT scan of the chest and mediastinum is performed, as well as an electrocardiographic study (ECG) or echocardiography (EchoCG).