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@bfort - I think you are dealing with more than costochondritis. Costochondritis is a musculoskeletal pain- inflammation of the junction of rib cartilage and sternum. It typically hurts on pressure over the area.
Heart conditions and GERD don’t hurt on external pressure.
You have pain after eating and weight loss- this combination sounds familiar to me.
My problem was caused by pressure of an artery in the abdomen, causing less blood flow and pain after a meal. The condition is called MALS ( Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome). A ligament from the diaphragm puts pressure on the celiac artery. The celiac artery supplies blood to organs involved with digestion. The pain is quite severe.
I had surgery to cut the ligament and later a stent placement to keep the artery open.
Cure for now - 6 years later.
We have many members on Connect with MALS and there often is a discussion going on.
Diagnosis is made by Doppler ultrasound of the abdomen- showing change in speed of botflies. It’s confirmed with a CT angiogram.
Where do you get your medical care now?
Replies to "@bfort - I think you are dealing with more than costochondritis. Costochondritis is a musculoskeletal pain-..."
I too have had this pressure mid sternum that I just ignore but its getting worse. I thought it was from the underwire bra. I have a hiatal hernia. I did have an echocardiogram a few years back and nothing serious. This last year has been the most stressful. Spouse ill, now my brother has pancreatic cancer stage IV. Too much stress as I am getting older hitting 65 soon. thank you for sharing about the MALS Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome. I have had issues in the past after eating a meal and just wanting to go lay down. when we went out to eat I couldn't wait to get home.
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Hi
Thank you for your information. I have had 12 various scans and tests and really found nothing.
I am scheduled for a esophageal monometry next month at the Cleveland Clinic. I am only going there for this test because it is not given in my area. I live in Naples FL.
I am going to mention this to my internist and see what he says.
I'll post when I hear my results.
Thanks again.