10 Causes of Sternum Pain
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #3: Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a condition where there is inflammation of the alveoli. It can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, sternum pain, fever, productive cough, or dry cough. The severity of pneumonia can vary. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Other less common causes are autoimmune diseases, some medications, and other microorganisms.
The risk of pneumonia increases if the individual has heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, asthma, diabetes, and a weakened immune system. Smokers are also at risk. It can be diagnosed based on symptoms, medical imaging, and sputum culture. Vaccines for the prevention of certain types of pneumonia are also available.
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