The symptoms of Costochondritis.?

Question

I was diagnosed with Costochondritis over three years ago now. I'm pretty used to it and just try and get on with things.

Lately I've been suffering from it really bad again, huge chest pains, rib cage is tender and when I eat I get really bloated.

I've got another doctors appointment. But that's not for a few days. I was wondering in the time being, if anyone knows whether or not heartburn is linked to Costochondritis? I read somewhere that it was but I'm not entirely sure, as since the pain has been bad with the ribs, I've had awful heartburn too.

Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

Tietze's syndrome, also known as costochondritis, is a benign inflammation of one or more of the costal cartilages.

Tietze's is not the same thing as costochondritis, the sole difference being that in Tietze's syndrome there is swelling of the costal cartilages. It is now recognized that the presence or absence of swelling is only an indicator of the severity of the condition. It was at one time thought to be associated with, or caused by, a viral infection acquired during surgery, but this is now known not to be the case. Most sufferers have not had recent surgery.

Alternative treatment includes:

Supplements, including ginger root, evening primrose oil, bromelain, vitamin E, omega-3 oils, and white willow bark, may be used to reduce the inflammation. In addition, substances that may promote the healing of cartilage, such as glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate, may also be used. Acupuncture and massage therapy may also be useful.

Answer 2

No, costochondritis doesn't give you a heart burn. But the pain-killers/anti-inflammatory medicines/NSAIDs (all names of the same thing) that you take for it, can give you a heartburn.