About this symptom
Pain behind the breastbone is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It may feel like pressure, tightness, burning or discomfort and can appear during exertion or at rest. Causes may involve the heart, chest muscles, oesophagus, lungs or other organs.
Details your clinician needs
Note where the pain occurs, how long it lasts and whether it relates to walking, deep breaths, movement or eating. Mention any spread to the arm, back, neck or jaw, and associated breathlessness, nausea, cold sweats or dizziness.
When to arrange a consultation
If discomfort keeps returning but there are no immediate warning signs, arrange an assessment. A cardiologist can review the symptoms and risk factors. Do not postpone evaluation simply because pain has settled.
What to bring
Previous ECGs, discharge letters, blood tests, a medication list and notes about each episode can help determine which investigations are appropriate.
Signs and symptoms
Warning features may include persistent or worsening chest pressure, cold sweats, nausea, profound weakness, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm, neck or jaw.
The character of pain alone cannot reliably identify its cause, so concerning symptoms should not be ignored.
Diagnosis and tests
During a consultation, the clinician reviews the history, blood pressure, pulse and risk factors. An ECG, blood tests or other investigations may be needed.
Suspected acute coronary syndrome requires immediate emergency evaluation rather than a routine appointment.
Care and treatment approaches
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Do not take unfamiliar medicines or try to rule out a heart problem on your own.
For recurring symptoms, a clinician determines the next steps after assessing your health.
When to seek urgent care
Call 103 in Ukraine immediately if chest pain or tightness starts suddenly, persists or comes with breathlessness, cold sweats, nausea or severe weakness. Do not drive yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Can pain behind the breastbone have a non-cardiac cause?
Yes. There are many possible non-cardiac causes, but serious conditions cannot be safely excluded without assessment.
Should I see a doctor if the pain has stopped?
Recurring pain needs evaluation. If an episode included warning symptoms, seek emergency medical advice.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
