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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Tightness In Chest And Breathing Difficulty?

Xiphoid process. No protruding lump but for three years have been tight in chest. Some days can get out of bed with tightness there, some days almost none. Starting to affect breathing as I feel I always struggle a bit, never comftorable . Pushing on Xiphoid area seems to allow easier breathing, sometime eases pain
Wed, 31 Dec 2014
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on HCM.
Xiphoid process related problems can be due to GERD ( Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease ).
It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter.
Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause the symptoms.
Try to follow these steps for better symptomatic relief.
1. Avoid hot and spicy food.
2. Avoid large meals, instead take frequent small meals.
3. Avoid stress and anxiety.
4. Start proton pump inhibitor.
5. Go for walk after meals.
6. Keep 2 - 3 pillows under head in the bed. 7. Avoid smoking and alcohol if you have this habit.
8. Loose weight if you are obese.
Do these life style modifications and your xiphoid discomfort will mostly solved.
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What Causes Tightness In Chest And Breathing Difficulty?

Thanks for your question on HCM. Xiphoid process related problems can be due to GERD ( Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease ). It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause the symptoms. Try to follow these steps for better symptomatic relief. 1. Avoid hot and spicy food. 2. Avoid large meals, instead take frequent small meals. 3. Avoid stress and anxiety. 4. Start proton pump inhibitor. 5. Go for walk after meals. 6. Keep 2 - 3 pillows under head in the bed. 7. Avoid smoking and alcohol if you have this habit. 8. Loose weight if you are obese. Do these life style modifications and your xiphoid discomfort will mostly solved.