What Is Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is an inflammation that occurs in the cartilage located in the chest wall. It is also referred to as Tietze’s Syndrome and is sometimes mistaken for a serious cardiac condition, however it is only a benign condition that causes mild to moderate chest discomfort. This discomfort is often mistaken for a heart attack since the symptoms tend to be similar.

Signs and Symptoms of Costochondritis
Costochondritis is typically characterized by a sharp, painful sensation in the chest area, which can spread to the upper back and arms.Dull, aching pressure or pain, soreness and difficulty breathing may also be experienced. These symptoms may be aggravated when deep breaths are taken, when coughing, or when laughing or sneezing. In some cases, the pain may radiate towards the arms and shoulders, which further contributes to the confusion between this condition and heart attack symptoms, which include similar feelings of radiating pain.

Treatment for Costochondritis
Costochondritis usually resolves on it own without any specific treatment, and typically lasted between a few days and several weeks. Several strategies can help ease the symptoms and reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Homecare treatment methods for costochondritis include:
– Taking an over-the-counter NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen to help reduce any chest pain or swelling.
– Avoiding any activities that involve deep chest muscles or those that require strenuous effort, such as weight lifting or chest exercises.
– Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath.
– Using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen.

In some cases, physical therapy for costochondritis may be recommended to help relieve pain and stiffness in the chest and rib area. This can include things such as massage to loosen tense muscles, stretching techniques, and posture correction exercises. In more severe cases, steroid injections may also be utilized to reduce inflammation and pain.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, medical evaluation and treatment may be necessary to avoid further complications and accurately diagnose any underlying medical conditions.

In conclusion, costochondritis is a common cause of chest discomfort and pain. Generally, symptoms can be managed through homecare treatments such as NSAIDS and physical therapy. If symptoms persist, a medical evaluation is recommended.