COSTOCHONDRITIS

Costochondritis is a pain in the front of the chest. It comes from the area where the ribs attach to the breastbone or sternum. Sometimes the pain may be confused with heart attack pain. The cause of costochondritis is not known. It may follow a respiratory infection like a cold. Sometimes it may follow an injury or overuse. Even though adults usually have this, babies and children may also have it.

The pain in the front of the rib cage may be dull and aching. Sometimes it is sharp and comes and goes. It may be worse when taking a deep breath. There may be tenderness if someone pushes on the area. If there is redness and swelling of the skin around the sternum, it is called Tietze's syndrome.

Seek medical evaluation for any pain in the chest. Costochondritis is not a serious condition, but a heart attack is. Because the pain can be confused with a heart attack, tests may be needed for proper diagnosis of the problem.

Treatment for costochondritis and Tietze's syndrome is the same. Activities or movements that make the pain worse should be avoided. Sometimes heat makes the pain better. A heating pad on low can be put on the area for 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen can be taken. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions when taking these medicines. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

When the pain is gone, it is important to go back to normal activities slowly. Stretching and warming-up properly are important before starting any strenuous exercise or activity.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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