Sassie
My 21 yr. old daughter and I have the same condition. This is NOT cardiac related and you sound as if you may be nearing panic attacks over it. It is very uncomfortable but the doctor is prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs because this is in your bones. You will not die from it nor have a heart attack, ok? We know,we've been there. My rib cage, sternum etc., is sore to the touch and has been for almost 20 years. My daughter panics when hers gets bad,as she swears that it is a heart attack. But you have been diagnosed by your physician, don't second guess him and if therapy, heat or cold feels better, go with it. Work on pain relief, this is not deadly, so please proceed with your life. Don't let it get you down. Good luck, Sassie