Costochondritis Symptoms and Causes

Our rib cage comprises twelve pairs of ribs, the first seven of which are known as true ribs. One end of these rib bones is connected to the spinal cord while the other end is attached to the sternum through cartilage. The next three pairs, also known as false ribs, are attached to the cartilage of the rib above and are also connected to the spine at the back. The last two pairs are connected only to the spine at the back. At times, the cartilage which connects the upper ribs with the sternum might get inflamed, thereby causing localized chest pain. This condition is known as costochondritis. It is also known as chest wall pain, costosternal syndrome and costosternal chondrodynia. Scroll down to learn about this medical condition.

Costochondritis

Causes and Symptoms

Now that you are familiar with costochondritis, it's time to familiarize yourself with costochondritis symptoms and causes. Trauma to the rib cage is one of the most common causes of this medical condition. A blow to the chest or repeated minor injuries to the chest area could be responsible for the inflammation. Rib cage injuries could be caused due to motor vehicle accidents. If the driver ends up slamming his/her chest against the steering wheel, it can cause inflammation and rib pain. Inflamed cartilage could also be caused due to overuse injuries. Forceful swinging of arms in sports such as rowing, tennis or golf could result in inflammation. Inflammation in the costosternal joint could also be attributed to bacterial, fungal or viral respiratory infections. Those suffering from fibromyalgia might also experience recurring chest pain due to an inflamed costosternal joint.

Those suffering from inflammation in the costosternal joint experience sharp pain and tenderness over the costosternal joint. A constant, dull gnawing chest pain and tightness in chest might be experienced by the patient. The pain generally radiates to the back or the abdomen. The left side of the sternum is more likely to be affected by this condition. Those suffering from inflammation around costosternal joint are likely to experience breathing problems. Since the rib cage is supported by intercostal muscles which allow the rib cage to expand and drop as one inhales and exhales, therefore, inflammation of the cartilage results in painful breathing. The pain increases while taking deep breaths, coughing and sneezing. Jerky movements and strenuous physical activity will definitely worsen the condition. Since tightness in chest and chest pain are symptoms of heart disease as well, therefore, a thorough medical examination is recommended for a proper diagnosis. X rays and other imaging procedures can help in detecting other conditions such as bruised ribs or fractures.

Treatment Options

Though the symptoms might disappear within a couple of weeks, it would be best to seek medical help for treating costosternal syndrome. One must also follow certain self-care measures. It is essential to take complete rest. Indulging in physical activities that put pressure on the costosternal joint will only worsen your condition. Speed up the healing process by taking rest. You can also apply hot packs to the chest to get relief. For those suffering from severe pain, doctors generally recommend use of muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs. Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen are quite effective in alleviating the symptoms of costochondritis.

Since trauma to the ribcage is one of the most common contributory factors for inflammation and pain around costosternal joint, people who have recently suffered from such an injury must get themselves medically examined. Taking the prescribed drugs and following self-care measures will certainly help in alleviating the symptoms of this condition.