Tietze's syndrome
When to seek medical help
It can be difficult to tell the difference between thechest pain associated with costochondritis and pain caused by more serious conditions, such asa heart attack .
However, a heart attack usually causes more widespread pain and additional symptoms, such as breathlessness , nausea and sweating.
If you, or someone you're with, experiences sudden chest pain and you think there's a possibility it could bea heart attack, dial 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.
Ifyou'vehad chest painfor a while, don't ignore it. Make an appointment to see your GP so they can investigate the cause.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Costochondritis is the medical term for inflammation of the cartilage that joins your ribs to your breastbone (sternum).
Tietze's syndrome
Costochondritismay be confused with a separate condition called Tietze's syndrome. Both conditionsinvolveinflammation of the costochondral joint and can cause very similar symptoms. However, Tietze's
Signs and symptoms
When the costochondral joint becomes inflamed it can result in sharp Chest pain and tenderness, which may develop gradually or start suddenly. The pain may be made worse by: a particular posturesu
When to seek medical help
It can be difficult to tell the difference between thechest pain associated with costochondritis and pain caused by more serious conditions, such asa heart attack . However, a heart attack usually ca
Causes of costochondritis
Inflammation is the body's natural response to infection, irritation or injury. It's not known exactlywhy the costochondral joint becomes inflamed, but in some cases it's been linked to: severe cou
Diagnosing costochondritis
If you have symptoms ofcostochondritis, your GP will examine and touch the upper chest area around your costochondral joint. They'll ask you when and where your pain occurs and look at your recent med
Treating costochondritis
Costochondritisoften gets better after a few weeks, but self-help measures and medication can manage the symptoms. Self-help Costochondritis can be aggravated by any activity that places stress on y
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products