Spasms in middle of chest

[Brassapple 56]

I am 4 days post op and I have terrible pain in the middle of my rib cage. It comes in waves and only lasts a few seconds but it’s crippling.

[Matt Z 4,139]

5 minutes ago, Brassapple said:

I am 4 days post op and I have terrible pain in the middle of my rib cage. It comes in waves and only lasts a few seconds but it’s crippling.

This would be something you should contact your surgical team about... seriously, get on the phone asap.

[James Marusek 5,244]

Check you hospital discharge directions.

Mine said one of the reasons why you should contact your surgeon's office is:

Chest pain, rapid heartbeat and/or dizziness

[Brassapple 56]

Thanks guys will put a call in today.

[CaribeRidge 104]

First, I haven't had surgery yet. Second, but most important, contact your doctor right away.

Third, my 2 cents, I get what you are describing and in my case they are esophageal spasms. They are caused, in my case, by GERD. I have to take omeprazole daily to manage them because they are extremely painful and even with the med I still get them just not as often. It feels like you are having a heart attack.

Aside from the omeprazole, when I get one, drinking cold Water helps to stop them right away. Now remember, I am pre-surgery so I am not sure if that will help. When you call your doc ask them if its ok to try until they can see you. Good luck.

[Trainwreck 1]

I had these to for about 6 days I’m 14 days post op now and they have stopped. I still get them when I eat but my surgeon said it’s just my stomach trying to re learn how to push the food down.

[Brassapple 56]

Thanks Sophstar that makes a lot of sense.