Ayurvedic Treatment for Costochondritis

Home / Diseases & Ayurveda / Cardio / Costochondritis

What is Costochondritis?

Costochondritis is a condition that causes pain in the chest that may mimic a heart attack. But this pain is actually caused by inflammation of the cartilage between your ribs and breastbone (the costosternal joints). This makes it painful to sneeze, cough and breathe normally.

The cause of Costochondritis isn't always clear but it may be due to physical stress or minor injuries such as from heavy lifting or strenuous exercise or from chronic coughing. Sometimes it may also occur without any cause.

Costochondritis is pretty common and can affect anybody but is most common among young adults and teens. The condition is usually not serious and often resolves on its own with rest and simple home treatments. For people with persistent or serious symptoms, consult a doctor for better diagnosis and management.

Common Causes of Costochondritis

The inflammation of the cartilage which links the ribs to the breastbone can be the root cause of Costochondritis, which is a typical reason for chest pains. This discomfort is sometimes alarming because it mimics more serious heart conditions. Knowing the potential triggers may help with managing or preventing this condition.

The causes of Costochondritis include:

Physical Strain: Excessive physical activity such as lifting weights, strenuous workouts or forceful activities can push against the chest and result in inflammation of the cartilage.
Injuries: Direct blows to the chest during accidents, sports or falls can cause acute inflammation of the chest cartilage and lead to Costochondritis.
Repetitive Movement: Repetitive activities involving upper body movement such as rowing or lifting can wear away the cartilage and cause inflammation.
Arthritis: Several arthritis conditions, for example rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, spread their inflammatory effects into the cartilage of the ribcage.
Joint Infections: Sometimes the cartilage becomes infected (after surgery, trauma, or exposure to infectious agents) and it causes Costochondritis.
Respiratory Illnesses: Chronic coughing associated with respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis or flu can repetitively stress the rib cage and cause Costochondritis.
Fibromyalgia: Individuals with fibromyalgia (a chronic pain disorder) may also experience Costochondritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Costochondritis

The chest pain associated with Costochondritis is often alarming because it resembles more serious conditions such as heart attacks. But it is actually pain from inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone. Understanding the symptoms of Costochondritis may help distinguish it from other medical issues and help with treatment.
The signs and symptoms of Costochondritis include: