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What can cause a pinching feeling somewhere around my sternum/lower?
What can cause a pinching feeling somewhere around my sternum or lower, or a feeling like there’s something In my stomach or around my sternum area?
I’ve been having this feeling off and on for several months, and sometimes I can ignore it but it’s constantly on my mind that something isn’t right. It feels like it’s in the center of me, like maybe an inch or so below my sternum. Sometimes I’ve felt the pain/feeling in my back too, and like it’s in the same place on my front and back side. Sometimes when I feel that way, it gives me the urge to have a bowel movement or I feel kind of like I need to go.
Last summer I started having a feeling of fullness right below my chest, and sometimes it felt like pressure was there. I’ve also been constipated, and most days I’ll go to the bathroom and have a decent bowel movement. It seems like I’ll go through cycles with my bowels, like I’ll feel constipated and don’t go for a day or few days, I’ll start going again and go decent amounts for several days, and then I’ll go and feel like I need to go more but like it’s too hard too push out on my own, or like something else is going on. Sometimes I’ve felt like I needed to go and it’s there, but it would hurt too much to push out and like I don’t know if my muscles are strong enough to push out or if something is weak.
I’ve wondered if the pinching feeling or feeling like something is near my sternum/below it, Is because of what’s been going on with my bowels.
I have a doctors appointment in a couple weeks.
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Just a guess, but...
Hiatal hernia?
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2 ReactionsThat’s possible, I don’t know for sure though. Sometimes I’ve wondered if I have one
Hi @nicolerose30, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! You have found a good place for support as you go through the process of addressing your sternum/stomach discomfort possibly related to inconsistent digestive patterns.
@scottrl may just be on to something and others may have different ideas. I certainly am not a medical expert, rather continuing to learn as I go through the same process you are starting. I am glad you are going to work with a doctor who will walk with you through this process. A doctor who knows the science + you who knows your body = a productive partnership!
I relate to your stomach and back symptoms, along with constipation. It is frustrating. In my case, I learned I do have muscle coordination problems at the end of the digestive process that impacts everything up above. I look forward to learning what you find out.
Do you notice any connection to your symptoms and when you eat? Does being active and maybe walking after eating make a difference?
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1 Reaction@nicolerose30
It definitely sounds like you may need a gastroenterologist for bloodwork, abdominal ultrasound and possibly endoscopy/colonoscopy. If your gallbladder is not functioning (biliary dyskinesia diagnosed by a HIDA scan), it could cause symptoms in your mid abdomen/sternum area.
Here is what AI suggested for your condition:
“ I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some general information about potential causes for the symptoms you're describing. It's good that you have a doctor's appointment scheduled, as they will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here are some possible explanations for the pinching feeling around your sternum and the associated symptoms:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues
Gas and Bloating: Accumulation of gas in the digestive tract can cause discomfort and a pinching sensation.
Constipation: As you mentioned experiencing cycles of constipation, this can lead to abdominal discomfort and a feeling of fullness or pressure.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This condition can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
2. Musculoskeletal Causes
Muscle Strain: Strain or tension in the muscles around the chest and abdomen can lead to a pinching sensation.
Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum can cause localized pain and discomfort.
3. Referred Pain
Sometimes, pain or discomfort in the abdomen can be referred from other areas, such as the back or even the organs. This could explain the sensation you feel in both the front and back.
4. Esophageal Issues
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux can cause a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest area.
Esophageal Spasms: These can lead to a feeling of tightness or pain in the chest.
5. Anxiety and Stress
Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to sensations of tightness or discomfort in the chest and abdomen.
6. Other Considerations
Gallbladder Issues: Problems with the gallbladder can cause pain in the upper abdomen, which may be felt near the sternum.
Heart-Related Issues: While less common, it's important to rule out any cardiac issues, especially if you experience additional symptoms like shortness of breath or radiating pain.
Recommendations
Keep a Symptom Diary: Note when the symptoms occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (like food intake or stress levels).
Discuss Symptoms with Your Doctor: Be sure to share all your symptoms, including bowel habits, any changes in appetite, and any other relevant information.
Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. It's important to follow their guidance for the best outcome.”
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1 ReactionI haven’t noticed a connection to my symptoms and when I eat, or being active. I haven’t tried walking after I eat, but there’s not a certain time I noticed the symptoms.
Sometimes I’ve been stressed because of how I’ve been feeling, and sometimes I think I notice the symptoms more when I’m thinking about it. I don’t think the symptoms are caused by stress though.
Sometimes I’ve wondered if leaning forward/over makes me feel the symptoms more, but sometimes I’ve noticed it when I’m not leaning over. There’s been a few times when I’ve felt worse after pushing/trying to have a bowel movement