When I stand up, there is a small 3" in diameter spot, under the center of my chest, just under the rib cage. It's just below the little soft spot in the chest center. I call this place the "thumper", don't know the medical term for it? When this little area starts its painful mischief, heres what happens. Severe pain under the center-rib cage an area about 3" in diameter. Shortness of breath immediately starts, (like turning an oxygen bottle knob slowly to the "off" position, for about 5-10 seconds. I need to breath in and out rapidly to catch up oxygen intake. Severe aching begins in both legs from the knees to the ankles. When the pain in this area stops, all of these symptoms disappear. Sitting down is no problem, and little trouble. I have been in and out of emergency rooms for the past two years...tests, tests, tests...and more tests. Finally, while on a (5) day hospital stay, for MORE TESTS..... a very intelligent young, female doctor, walked over to my bedside, and pressed her thumb against my ankle. It left a very white thumbprint outline on my skin. Hmmm, she says.... "too much water in your system". Too much water in my system??? HUH???? They proceeded to drain off about 10-15 pounds over a FEW DAYS. Symptoms disappeared. Now they are back, but I am not water logged, as before this time, (at least I don't think I am)? I have been on line for months reading typical horror stores from hundreds of guys and gals who have this , or a simular problem. IMO, the doctor that comes up with a diagnosis and treatment for this devil's curse, should be in line for the Nobel Prize, as not one doctor that I have been to, or read about, has come up with a permanent cure, that I know of??? In my case, the over-watered scenario was a temporarly fix, but not a cureable solution. (CAUTION: THIS IS SOMEWHAT DISGUSTING, BUT TRUE! Another fellow I knew, had been constipation for so long, the waste matter was packed inside his intestines and bowels. Severe stomach swelling up and down. From what I understand, the fermenting acid-gas, from the foods was backing up, with no place to go, but upward. After several days in the hospital, dieting, and learning to chew his food (at least (20) times, watching the fatty-acidy foods, his problem gradually dimished. Hopefully, this post may help someone else out there get some kind of relief? I am not a doctor so don't take this as any kind of mediacl advise, please. Just trying to help! Good luck to all with this problem.......