10 Causes of Sternum Pain
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #2: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux is a chronic condition where stomach contents backflow into the esophagus. Other symptoms include heartburn, sternum pain, bad breath, vomiting, breathing issues, and wearing away of the enamel of the teeth. It can lead to complications such as Barrett’s esophagus, esophagitis, and esophageal stricture.
Risk factors of this condition include smoking, obesity, pregnancy, certain medications, and hiatal hernia. Management usually involves lifestyle changes and medications such as proton pump inhibitors, antacids, prokinetics, and H2 receptor blockers.
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