Summary about Disease
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). It causes chest pain, often sharp and localized, that can be aggravated by movement or pressure. It is a relatively common condition and is usually harmless, resolving on its own with time.
Symptoms
Sharp, aching, or pressure-like pain in the chest.
Pain most commonly located on the left side of the sternum.
Pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, or physical activity.
Tenderness to the touch when pressing on the cartilage in the affected area.
Pain that may radiate to the back or abdomen.
Causes
In many cases, the exact cause of costochondritis is unknown. Potential causes include:
Minor trauma to the chest wall (e.g., from a fall or sports injury).
Repetitive strain from activities like heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Viral or bacterial respiratory infections that cause coughing.
Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis).
Tumors (rare).
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with pain but doesn't reduce inflammation.
Prescription pain relievers: In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers like opioids or tramadol.
NSAIDs: Prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation directly in the affected area.
Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants may be prescribed if muscle spasms are contributing to the pain.
Antidepressants: Certain tricyclic antidepressants may be used to manage chronic pain associated with costochondritis.
Is Communicable
No, costochondritis is not communicable. It is not caused by an infection that can be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
Apply heat or ice to the affected area to help relieve pain.
Practice good posture.
Gentle stretching exercises may help improve flexibility and reduce pain.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until the pain subsides.
Over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
Consult a doctor if the pain is severe or doesn't improve with home treatment.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of costochondritis can vary. Mild cases may resolve within a few days or weeks. More severe cases can last for several weeks or even months. Chronic costochondritis can persist for longer periods, with intermittent flare-ups.
How is it diagnosed?
Costochondritis is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and a description of the symptoms. The doctor will press on the chest wall to identify areas of tenderness. In most cases, no further testing is needed. However, the doctor may order:
X-rays: To rule out other conditions, such as pneumonia or bone fractures.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): To rule out heart problems.
Blood tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Timeline of Symptoms
Onset: Symptoms typically develop gradually, but can sometimes appear suddenly.
Initial phase: Sharp, localized chest pain that worsens with movement or pressure.
Progression: Pain may radiate to the back or abdomen. Tenderness to the touch in the affected area.
Resolution: Pain gradually decreases over time, typically within a few weeks to months.
Recurrence: In some cases, symptoms may recur, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed.
Important Considerations
Chest pain can be a symptom of serious heart conditions. It's important to seek medical attention to rule out other causes, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease.
Costochondritis can sometimes be confused with Tietze syndrome, which is a similar condition that also involves inflammation of the cartilage, but is characterized by visible swelling.
While costochondritis is usually harmless, it can be quite painful and can interfere with daily activities.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.