About Costochondritis (Inflamed Sternum)
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the breastbone (sternum) and the ribs. It can occur due to various reasons such as infection, injury, or other health conditions. The inflammation typically affects the cartilage in the area where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone, known as the costosternal joint or costosternal junction.
This condition can cause chest pain ranging from mild to severe. Mild cases may only result in slight tenderness or pain when pressure is applied to the area, while more severe cases can worsen with certain movements and deep breaths. In most cases, costochondritis resolves on its own within a few weeks or months, but some cases may require treatment.
The exact disease causes of costochondritis are not fully understood. However, it is believed to be related to inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. Some potential causes of Costochondritis include:
- Trauma to the chest, such as blunt impact from a car accident or fall
- Physical strain from activities like heavy lifting and strenuous exercise
- Certain viruses or respiratory conditions that can cause joint inflammation
- Severe coughing
Non-modifiable risk factors, which are factors that cannot be changed and may increase the risk of developing Costochondritis, include:
- Being female, especially if you are an athlete
- Participating in high-impact activities
- Recent physical trauma or fall affecting the chest area
- Having allergies and frequent exposure to irritants that involve sneezing or coughing symptoms
Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed or controlled to reduce the risk. However, there is limited information available regarding modifiable risk factors specifically for costochondritis. It is important to note that managing overall health and avoiding activities that strain the chest area may help reduce the risk of developing this condition. Remember, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.
The most common early symptoms of costochondritis include:
- Chest pain in the upper and middle rib area on either side of the breastbone
- Gradual or sudden increase in pain
- Pain that worsens when lying down
- Pain that intensifies with coughing or deep breaths
- Pain that increases with physical activity
- Pain in the back and abdomen
- Chest tightness
- Radiating pain in the chest
It's important to note that symptoms like chest tightness and radiating pain can indicate other conditions, including a heart attack. If you experience persistent, intense chest pain, it is recommended to seek immediate medical care. Remember to consult with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose costochondritis, doctors typically rely on a combination of medical history and physical examination. They may perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Medical history: The doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or activities that may have triggered the chest pain.
- Physical examination: The doctor will examine your chest to assess tenderness and swelling around the costochondral joints. They may also listen to your heart and lungs and check for signs of infection.
- Lab tests: In most cases, lab tests are not necessary for diagnosing costochondritis. However, depending on your medical history, the doctor may order tests to rule out other conditions like pneumonia or coronary heart disease.
- X-rays: X-rays may be recommended to ensure there are no abnormalities in your lungs or ribs. However, they do not show specific signs of costochondritis.
Remember, it's important to consult with your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of costochondritis.
The goals of treatment for costochondritis are to reduce pain and inflammation, improve chest wall function, and enhance overall quality of life. Here are the different treatment options and how they work to achieve these goals:
Medication:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- Cough suppressants can ease coughing and reduce pressure on the cartilage.
- Injections of lidocaine or corticosteroids may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation in rare cases.
Therapies:
- Physical therapy can help relieve tension in the chest wall and improve chest wall function.
- Applying moist heat through warm compresses can provide relief by increasing blood flow and relaxing the muscles.
Health behavior changes:
- Resting and avoiding strenuous activities that affect the chest wall can help alleviate symptoms.
Remember, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional before trying any over-the-counter medication or making any health behavior changes.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your healthcare professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your healthcare professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.