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Costochondritis (kos-toe-kon-DRY-tis) is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum). Pain caused by costochondritis might mimic that of a heart attack or other heart conditions.
Costochondritis is sometimes known as chest wall pain, costosternal syndrome or costosternal chondrodynia. Sometimes, swelling accompanies the pain (Tietze syndrome). Costochondritis Costochondritis most commonly affects the upper Costochondritis usually has no apparent cause. ribs on the left-hand side of Treatment focuses on easing your pain while your body. Pain is often worst you wait for the condition to improve on its own, where the rib cartilage attaches to the breastbone which can take several weeks or longer. (sternum), but it can also occur where the cartilage attaches to Costochondritis usually goes away on its own, the rib. although it might last for several weeks or Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or longer. Treatment focuses on pain relief. products. Advertising revenue supports our no for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Products & Services
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The pain associated with costochondritis usually: Diabetes? This diet works …
5 Steps to Controlling High Blood Pressur Occurs on the left side of your breastbone FREE TRIAL — Mayo Clinic Health Letter Is sharp, aching or pressure-like
Affects more than one rib
Worsens when you take a deep breath or cough
When to see a doctor
If you have chest pain, you should seek emergency medical attention to rule out life-threatening causes such as a heart attack.
Causes
Costochondritis usually has no clear cause. Occasionally, however, costochondritis may be caused by:
Injury. A blow to the chest is one example.
Physical strain. Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and severe coughing have been linked to costochondritis.
Arthritis. Costochondritis might be linked to specific problems, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
Joint infection. Viruses, bacteria and fungi — such as tuberculosis, syphilis and aspergillosis — can infect the rib joint.
Tumors. Noncancerous and cancerous tumors can cause costochondritis. Cancer might travel to the joint from another part of the body, such as the breast, thyroid or lung.
Risk factors
Costochondritis occurs most often in women and in people older than 40.
Tietze syndrome usually occurs in teenagers and young adults, and with equal frequency in men and women.
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