Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to See a Doctor

Question
I feel a discomfort right below my chest/breast plate,center. If i touch with slight pressure, i feel a ball of some sort, it moves when pressed hard enough. If i squeeze hard enough, it feels like something inflated. imagine a balloon of some sort, when you squeeze it shifts. I had heart burn , but i took the prilosec treatment and it took care of it, but i did have a bad problem, especially with spices. I've cut back quite a bit and it has not reoccured. Like i mentioned above, it's right dead center below breast plate. What could it be???  

Answer
To Leo,

From your explanation, it sounds like a cyst. There are various types of cysts that may present at the substernal (in the lower midsection of chest). Please do not squeeze it! The various types include a very simple primary dermoid cyst, bronchogenic cyst, endocrine cysts, and neurogenic cysts. Depending on the type of cyst, it can be surgically resected. Others may need further evaluation of the origin of the cyst.

New York State Law prohibits any physician from providing a diagnosis or management without evaluating the patient. Thus, I do recommend that you seek medical attention from your primary care physician for further assistance.

Regards,

John T, MD