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Costochondritis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Costochondritis (COS-to-kon-DRY-tis) is an irritation and swelling of the joints that connect the ribs to the breastbone. It is most common in young adults. It may take 3 to 6 weeks to disappear.

Causes

Often, no cause can be found.

Signs/Symptoms

The problem is marked by chest tightness and sharp pain that worsens when you move or breathe deeply. The pain may spread to the arm and may occur in more than one place.

Care

No special care is needed.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • Avoid exhausting physical activity and try not to bump your ribs as you move around.
  • Applying heat to the injury may help relieve pain. Use a warm heating pad, whirlpool bath, or warm, moist towels for 10 to 20 minutes every hour for 48 hours.
  • Nonprescription medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen may ease the pain.

Call Your Doctor If...

  • The pain increases or you are very uncomfortable.
  • You develop a high temperature.
  • You develop worse chest pains.
  • You develop new, unexplained symptoms.
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