What is the mediastinum? The mediastinum is a connective tissue space running vertically in the thorax and is also called the mediastinal space in German. This space contains the heart with the pericardium, the part of the esophagus that lies above the diaphragm, the lower part of the trachea with its division into the main … Mediastinum: Function, Anatomy, Diseases
The mediastinum corresponds to a tissue space of the thoracic cavity that houses all thoracic organs except the lungs. The organs are embedded within the mediastinum in connective tissue, which maintains their shape and performs supportive as well as protective functions. The mediastinum often becomes clinically relevant due to mediastinal tumors, which can displace the … Mediastinum: Structure, Function & Diseases
Synonym Inflammation of the mediastinal space Mediastinitis occurs in both acute and chronic forms. Acute mediastinitis is a highly dangerous inflammation of the mediastinum where the heart is located. It can be caused by various pathologies such as a leak in the esophagus. It is accompanied by a severe feeling of illness and requires quick … Mediastinitis
Diagnostics If mediastinitis is suspected, the medical history and physical examination can provide important information. The patient may be asked about recent operations, and the collection of symptoms also plays an important role. For example, suddenly occurring severe chest pain after excessive vomiting can be a decisive indication of the rare Boerhaave syndrome. Sudden shortness … Diagnostics | Mediastinitis
Prognosis The mortality rate of acute mediastinitis is almost 100% in the absence of adequate therapy. Even under therapy, deaths are not rare. The danger lies in particular in the development of a so-called sepsis (colloquially called blood poisoning) due to a spreading of the triggering pathogens via the blood. However, an adequate therapy can … Prognosis | Mediastinitis
Therapy The pain is treated with NSARs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or diclofenac. Ibuprofen and diclofenac are not only analgesic but also anti-inflammatory. Diclofenac is also available as an ointment, better known as Voltaren®. One plant-based ointment that helps well is Arnica Ointment. If the pain is very severe, there is the possibility … Therapy | Pain in the sternum causes, symptoms and therapy
Many people in the population suffer from pain in the region of the sternum, i.e. the breastbone. Since important organs such as the heart and the lungs are located behind this, most people affected are unsettled when they consult a doctor. However, the cause of the pain often lies in the musculoskeletal system. Causes The … Pain in the sternum causes, symptoms and therapy
Symptoms The pain in the sternum is perceived as very unpleasant. There is often an additional feeling of pressure or tightness. In most cases the pain itself is stabbing and gets worse when the chest is moved. When breathing in, it becomes maximal, because the chest is stretched. When breathing out, the pain improves. Affected … Symptoms | Pain in the sternum causes, symptoms and therapy
