Overview
Costochondritis, pronounced “kos-toe-kon-DRY-tis,” is an inflammatory condition affecting the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). The hallmark symptom is chest pain, which can mimic heart-related discomfort. Although usually benign, costochondritis can cause significant discomfort. Let’s delve into the details of this condition.
Types of Costochondritis
- Costosternal Costochondritis: Affects the cartilage where the rib attaches to the sternum.
- Costovertebral Costochondritis: Involves the cartilage connecting the rib to the spine.
- Costotransverse Costochondritis: Affects the cartilage at the junction between the rib and the spine’s transverse process.
Causes of Costochondritis
The exact cause remains unclear, but several factors may contribute:
- Physical Trauma: Accidents or falls leading to chest injury.
- Physical Strain: Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
- Genetic Predisposition.
- Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal (e.g., syphilis, tuberculosis).
- Tumors: Both non-cancerous and cancerous.
Risk Factors of Costochondritis
- Gender: Women over 40 are more susceptible.
- Age: Occurs predominantly in older individuals.
- Tietze Syndrome: A variant affecting teenagers and young adults.
Symptoms of Costochondritis
1. Location: Pain on the left side of the breastbone.
2. Character: Sharp, aching, or pressure-like.
3. Radiation: May extend to arms and shoulders.
4. Aggravating Factors: Deep breaths, coughing, sneezing, or chest wall movement.
Preventions of Costochondritis
- Backpack Use: Encourage proper backpack use to prevent strain.
- Prompt Infection Treatment.
- Early Mobilization After Surgery.
Diagnosis of Costochondritis
- Physical Examination: Assess tenderness and swelling around the breastbone.
- Tests:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Rule out infection.
- Chest X-ray: Exclude other causes of chest pain.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Rule out heart conditions.
Treatment for Costochondritis
- Self-Care:
- Rest.
- Hot or cold compresses.
- Medication:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) for mild to moderate pain.
- Narcotics (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone) for severe pain.
- Antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, doxycycline) for bacterial infections.
- Antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) for chronic pain.
- Corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone, prednisone) if NSAIDs are ineffective.
- Physical Therapy:
- Gentle chest muscle stretches.
- Nerve stimulation via adhesive patches.
- Specialists:
- Rheumatologist: Expert in arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and pain disorders affecting joints.
When to seek medical attention ?
If you experience chest pain, especially if it resembles a heart attack, seek emergency medical attention promptly.
