Pain turned to intense pressure that won't let up around my sternum

[2johndeereboys]

I am a soon to be 42 y/o female that started experiencing "an elephant sitting on my chest" on 2/27/16. It lasted around 15 minutes (I did not have to take any pain reliever for this one) then it went away on it's own. Fast forward to today 3/1/16 and I have sharp pains near my sternum (right between my cleavage) and this lasts for quite a while. So I take some prescription Naproxen. When the Naproxen kicks in the pain lets up but it leaves behind INTENSE pressure that just won't go away!!!!

This second attack I noticed that the pain radiated into my left shoulder. I am physically healthy but I do have Bipolar, GAD, SAD (Social) & OCD for which I am on daily meds. None of these meds have been increased or changed in quite sometime. I had to be taken off of Abilify in Dec 2015 because I suddenly developed a problem swallowing the pill.

I also have Pars Planitis (inflammation) in both eyes. Not sure if that is even relevant but just thought I'd mention it just in case!! I really don't think it is a cardiac issue but will mention that my Mom has dilated cardiomyopathy......and her father had the same things as well (he passed away 18 years ago from it).

If anyone has any thoughts or ideas as to what I might be experiencing I would love to hear from you!!
Thanks so much in advance!!

Lisa

[2johndeereboys]

Thank you so much!! I have a follow up appointment with my rheumy on April 1st to go over blood work results and possibly a lip biopsy.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!
Lisa

[2johndeereboys]

thanks for the replies!!! I ended up seeing my PCP and she DX'd it as Costochondritis.......which is simply inflammation of the sternum. She did order a chest X-Ray and it came back all clear.

I also have seen my Rheumy and am in the process of being tested for Sjogren's Syndrome.

Thanks so much again for the replies!!

Lisa

[52Mag92]

Wishing you the best, let us know when you receive a conclusive diagnose.

[caregiver222]

Crushing substernal pain and shoulder pain are hallmarks of cardiac ischemia. You need an immediate evaluation by a cardiologist. As of yesterday.

[52Mag92]

Hello, in my opinion, I think it's either acidic reflux, or an inflammation in your esophagus. The pain is generally described to be worse when you're laying/sleeping in these cases.

I've experienced something like this, the doctor said I had chronic tonsillitis (I have white small patch on tongue) and pharyngitis. Apples often triggered it for me by the way.