Overview
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). It can cause sharp, aching, or pressure-like pain on the left side of the breastbone that may affect more than one rib and radiate to the arms and shoulders. The pain often worsens with deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, or any chest wall movement. The exact cause of costochondritis is unknown, but it can be associated with trauma, illness, or physical strain. Treatment focuses on relieving the pain and waiting for the condition to improve on its own, which may take several weeks or more. If you experience chest pain, it's essential to seek emergency medical attention to rule out life-threatening causes such as a heart attack.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of costochondritis include pain on the left side of the breastbone, sharp, aching, or pressure-like pain affecting more than one rib, pain that can radiate to arms and shoulders, worsening pain with deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, or any chest wall movement. Other symptoms may include swelling, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, shortness of breath, swelling in the feet, legs, or belly, a new or changed whooshing sound in the heart (murmur), unexplained weight loss, blood in the urine, tenderness under the left rib cage (spleen), Janeway lesions, Osler nodes, and petechiae.
Development
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). The specific cause of costochondritis is often unknown, but it can be associated with trauma, illness, or physical strain, such as severe coughing. The pain caused by costochondritis can mimic that of a heart attack or other heart conditions. In some cases, swelling may also occur (Tietze syndrome). Costochondritis usually improves on its own within several weeks, and treatment focuses on relieving pain until the condition resolves.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosing costochondritis typically involves a physical exam by a healthcare provider. During the exam, the provider will feel along your breastbone for tenderness or swelling and may also move your rib cage or arms in specific ways to try to trigger symptoms. Since the pain associated with costochondritis can be similar to other conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and gastrointestinal problems, the healthcare provider might order some tests like an electrocardiogram and chest X-ray to rule out other conditions. No specific laboratory or imaging test confirms a diagnosis of costochondritis, but these tests can help rule out other causes of chest pain.
Management and Treatment
Home Remedies
Home remedies for costochondritis focus on relieving pain and reducing inflammation while waiting for the condition to improve on its own. Here are some suggestions:
- Apply heat or cold: Alternate between applying heat and cold to the affected area. You can use a heating pad or a cold pack wrapped in a towel. Apply heat for 15-20 minutes, followed by cold for 15-20 minutes. Repeat several times a day.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage pain. Always follow the dosage instructions and be cautious when giving medication to children.
- Gentle stretching: Perform gentle stretching exercises to help relax the chest muscles. Avoid any strenuous movements that could worsen the pain.
- Posture and positioning: Be mindful of your posture and try to maintain good spinal alignment. Avoid slouching or leaning over, which can exacerbate the pain.
- Breathing exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises to help relax the chest and rib muscles.
- Rest: Ensure you're getting enough rest, as fatigue can worsen costochondritis symptoms.
- Warm showers: Taking a warm shower or bath can help relax the muscles and alleviate pain. Remember that it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if costochondritis symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience chest pain alongside other concerning symptoms.
Treatment
The treatments for costochondritis typically focus on relieving pain and managing symptoms while waiting for the condition to improve on its own, which can take several weeks or more. The following treatments may be recommended:
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Alternate between hot and cold packs or take warm baths to help relax the chest muscles.
- Gentle stretching: Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce pain. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine.
- Posture improvement: Maintaining good posture can help reduce strain on the chest and alleviate pain.
- Rest: Avoiding strenuous activities and getting adequate rest can help the body recover from the inflammation. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, especially if the pain is severe or worsening.