Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I am 2 weeks out from having open heart surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm. My first appt. is Monday, but I am curious about this puffiness above my collarbone. I m also having pain only in my collarbone area which I know it will take time to heal from my sternotomy, but the only pain I have is in my collarbone area. I guess I am wondering if this is normal or what else might be causing the pain.
[|AI|]  Hi Dear, Welcome to Chat Doctor. Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of puffiness and pain above the collarbone which seems to be due to acid reflux disease or gastrointestinal reflux disease (HERD) due to which upper sphincter of esophagus allow the acidic content of stomach to come upwards in esophagus, which causes throat irritation and pressure in throat and collarbones. It can also occur due to muscle strain or due to cardiac problem. Consult cardiologist for diagnosis if there is any heart related problem. I would suggest you to avoid spicy and heavy meal, avoid late night eating, eat at least 1- 1.5 hours before going to bed and take frequent and small meals. You should consult gastroenterologist for proper examination. Doctor may order endoscopy test, ambulatory probe tests and X-ray of digestive system. Doctor may prescribe antacids such as genus to neutralize acid, H₂ blocker such as sanitizing to prevent acid production and proton pump inhibitor omeprazole. You should keep your head elevated while sleeping keep clove in mouth to suppress cough and do warm saline gargles. Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best wishes,