Costochondritis (chest wall inflammation)
About Costochondritis (chest wall inflammation)
An inflammatory condition that affects the cartilaginous portions of the ribs and causes chest pain. It affects one or more ribs, most commonly the second or third ribs, especially where these ribs meet the breastbone (sternum). The pain that is produced is sharp and often intensified by change of position of the ribs, such as lying down, bending over, coughing or sneezing. Symptoms may be confused with that of coronary artery disease or a heart attack.Symptoms
Chest pain, shortness of breath, chest pain that increases with use of chest wall muscles, chest wall tenderness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests are generally done to rule out other more serious causes of chest pain such as: heart attack, blood clot, aortic dissection, or lung collapse.Common tests: CT Scan, D-Dimer, EKG, Troponin, X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
- Morphine Oral
- Tramadol
- Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene
- Fentanyl Buccal (Transmucosal)
- Acetaminophen and Codeine
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl Transdermal
- Hydromorphone Oral and Rectal
- Meperidine
- Oxycodone
- Etodolac
- Salsalate
- Tolmetin
- Indomethacin
- Sulindac
- Piroxicam
- Ketorolac
- Oxaprozin
- Diclofenac
- Celecoxib
- Ketoprofen
- Nabumetone
- Diflunisal
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn) and pain medications, acetaminophen (Tylenol). In severe cases, a cortisone injection may be helpful.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Emergency Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Costochondritis (chest wall inflammation).