What can give you a dull ache 3inches above your sternum intermitent but not when swallowing dr?

Plenty: At your age your heart, lungs, intestinal tract, and chest bone could be causing it. Chest pain should be taken seriously as life threatening causes should be ruled out first. The best advice is to call your doctor or go to the Emergency Room to ascertain what it could be. Good luck

Hard to say: I assume you are referring to your lower neck area. A dull ache in the lower neck anteriorly is not a very common symptom. Would need more information as to how long it's been present? Does rotating or bending neck increase or bring on the symptoms? If the symptoms are related to movement of the neck it suggests a mechanical cause such as osteoarthritis. If persistent see your physician for help

See a doctor: An intermittent dull ache in the upper chest could signal angina ( heart pain related to reduced blood flow). Your doctor will take a history , perform an examination and order tests to sort this out.