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What causes pain when pressing on the left sternum?

Feb 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
Left sternal tenderness upon pressure may be related to trauma, costal neuritis, malignant tumors, or other causes. Patients are advised to seek medical attention promptly. When the left sternum is subjected to external impact, soft tissue damage may occur, and in severe cases, rib fractures can develop. This condition can lead to tenderness upon pressure in the left sternum, often accompanied by local swelling, subcutaneous bruising, or other manifestations.

Pain upon pressing the left sternum may be related to trauma, costal neuritis, malignant tumors, or other causes. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical consultation and undergo appropriate examinations at a hospital for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

1. Trauma

The left sternum may experience external impact, leading to soft tissue injury. In severe cases, rib fractures may occur, resulting in pain upon pressing the left sternum. Local swelling and subcutaneous bruising may also accompany this condition.

2. Costal Neuritis

Costal neuritis may develop due to prolonged exposure to cold or excessive physical fatigue. Under stimulation by inflammatory factors, chest pain occurs, and the pain typically worsens when pressure is applied to the affected area.

3. Malignant Tumors

If a patient suffers from malignant tumors such as lung cancer or gastric cancer and does not receive timely treatment, tumor metastasis to the chest may lead to pain upon pressing the left sternum.

Besides the above-mentioned causes, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease can also cause similar symptoms. Patients are advised to visit a hospital promptly for diagnostic tests such as chest X-ray, complete blood count, and pathological tissue examination to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate management.

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