10 Causes of Sternum Pain
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #4: Panic Attack
Panic attacks are episodes where a person experiences intense fear, shaking, sweating, palpitations, numbness, and shortness of breath. Episodes usually last about 30 minutes but differ for every individual.
Patients having a panic attack have often reported a fear of losing control and a chest pain located over the sternum (sternum pain). Panic attacks can occur due to post traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, drug use disorder, social anxiety disorder, and depression. Risk factors of panic attacks are psychological stress, caffeine use, and smoking. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and usually involves medication, counseling, muscle relaxation techniques, and breathing techniques.
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