This condition is characterized by pain and inflammation in the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). A costochondral joint is the cartilage that connects the ribs and the breastbone. A costochondritis attack can affect one or more ribs on the left side of the chest. Pain can radiate to the back, abdomen, or arms, and may be sharp, dull, or aching. Although costochondritis isn't life-threatening, it can be mistaken for a heart attack.
Causes of Costochondritis
There is no exact cause of costochondritis, but certain factors may trigger or worsen it, such as:
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An injury to the chest, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury.
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Heavy lifting, exercise, or coughing can strain the chest muscles.
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Arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis are conditions that cause inflammation of the joints.
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Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections that affect the costochondral joint.
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The growth of benign or malignant tumors in the chest wall or near the costochondral joint.
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Some people are more prone to costochondritis due to genetic factors.
Symptoms of Costochondritis
Chest pain is the main symptom of costochondritis.
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This condition usually affects the left side of the chest, but it can also affect the right side or both sides.
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The sternum attaches to the ribs on the front of the chest wall.
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The pain may be sharp, dull, or aching.
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The pain may radiate to the back, abdomen, shoulders, arms, or neck.
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Symptoms worsen with deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, physical activity, or chest movements.
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The affected area may be tender or swollen.
Infections may also cause fever, chills, fatigue, or difficulty breathing in people with costochondritis.
Diagnosis of Costochondritis
It is not possible to diagnose costochondritis with a specific test. Doctors diagnose chest pain based on a patient's medical history and physical examination. They will ask about the onset, duration, location, severity, and any possible triggers. Additionally, the doctor will palpate (press) the chest wall and listen to the heart and lungs to see if there are signs of inflammation or infection.
A doctor may order some tests to rule out other causes of chest pain, such as heart disease, lung disease, digestive problems, or musculoskeletal problems.
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X-ray of the chest: To check for abnormalities in the lungs, ribs, or sternum.
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An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical activity of the heart and detects any irregularities in the rhythm.
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An infection or inflammation in the body can be detected through blood tests.
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Other imaging tests: such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI scan, or bone scan to check for tumors or other abnormalities in the chest cavity.
Treatment of Costochondritis
In order to relieve pain and inflammation and prevent complications, costochondritis is treated based on its cause and severity. Common treatments include:
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The medication includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation, narcotics like codeine or hydrocodone for severe pain relief, antibiotics such as penicillin or doxycycline for treating bacterial infections, antidepressants like amitriptyline for treating chronic pain, and corticosteroids like betamethasone or prednisone for reducing severe inflammation.
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The purpose of physical therapy is to improve the mobility and flexibility of the chest wall by performing gentle stretching exercises and nerve stimulation techniques (such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS).
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To ease pain and discomfort, avoid strenuous activity; apply heat packs or cold compresses; get adequate rest; wear loose-fitting clothes; practice relaxation techniques; take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
Prevention of Costochondritis
Some preventative measures that may reduce the risk of developing or worsening costochondritis include:
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Taking antibiotics as prescribed and treating infections promptly.
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When participating in sports activities, wear a seat belt and protective gear to avoid injuries to the chest.
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Lifting weights correctly and warming up before exercise will prevent physical strain on the chest muscles.
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By taking medication and following a healthy lifestyle, you can manage inflammatory conditions that affect the joints.
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If you experience persistent or severe chest pain, seek medical attention.
Conclusion
It affects the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum and causes chest pain. Costochondritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, infection, inflammation, and tumors. The pain can be severe and mimic a heart attack, so you should seek medical assistance for diagnosis and treatment. Medication, physical therapy, and self-care are all effective ways to treat it. However, some people may experience chronic or recurrent episodes. By avoiding chest trauma, overuse, and strain, treating infections promptly, and managing inflammatory conditions, costochondritis can be prevented. The condition of costochondritis is not life-threatening, but it can affect a person's quality of life and well-being. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor with any chest pain and follow the prescribed treatment plan.
