Could you fracture your sternum by sneezing? I just sneezed and now I have a pain in my sternum to where it hurts to sit up and breathe deeply. Please help!
Hello,
Your sternum is probably fine. You may have damaged muscle tissue you have there. If so that could cause some serious pain. This would not be unlike bruising an intracostal muscle (muscle between your ribs). You can damage rib muscle by simply picking something up or turning your torso. Try some cold and hot compresses and try to keep movement to a minimum. That muscle helps you to breathe so keep your breathing rather shallow and give it time to heel. Stay away from strenuous activity. Try to relax and it should go away in a few days to a week.