Costochondritis

Costochondritis is the

inflammation

 of the

cartilage

 of the rib cage, often caused by repeated minor trauma to the chest wall, overuse of the arms, or viral respiratory infections. Chest pain caused by costochondritis can range from mild to severe.
To prevent Costochondritis, avoid repetitive misuse of muscles, and modify improper posture or

ergonomics

 of the home or workplace.
Symptoms

Chest discomfort

  • Occurs or worsens with laughing, coughing or sneezing, Occurs or worsens with deep inspiration, Occurs or worsens with exertion

  • Relieved with rest, Relieved by standing and quiet breathing, Relieved with a change in position

  • Sudden, intense spike of pain

  • Occurs or worsens when touching

  • Center of the chest, Left side, Right side

  • Severe

  • Rapidly developing

common

Chest pain when touched

common

Abnormally rapid breathing

or Rapid heart rate

Risk factors

Exercising

Recent chest injury or trauma

Recent upper respiratory tract infection

Treatment
Costochondritis usually goes away on its own, although it might last for several weeks or longer. Treatment focuses on pain relief. It is often treated with

NSAIDs

 to reduce the inflammation and ease the pain, but it is also advised to take rest from stressful physical activity during this period. If conservative measures don't work, your doctor might suggest injecting numbing medication and a corticosteroid directly into the painful joint
Recommended specialist

If you have Costochondritis, then a visit to a rheumatologist is highly recommended.

Contact a

Rheumatologist

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