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I Have Pain In My Ribs And Sternum When I
Question: I have pain in my ribs and sternum when I breathe
I have pain radiating across by back shoulders
I have pain radiating across by back shoulders
Brief Answer:
Most likely costochondritis
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
If the pain is happening with movement of your chest wall (rather than deeper pain), this is likely to be costochondritis. This is inflammation of the connective tissue of the rib cage. Usually it comes on after repetitive motion with the arms, strain from carrying something, or sometimes with excessive coughing.
Treatment is to avoid the thing that set it off, and NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, if you tolerate this class of medication (be sure to take it only when you have food in your stomach to avoid irritation). Providing you don't have a contraindication to taking these, ibuprofen can be taken as 400 mg three times a day for 7-10 days.
If you are not getting relief with these recommendations, then it is time to go in to see your doctor.
Also, if the pain is associated with shortness of breath, cough, light headedness, or other symptoms, then go in to make sure the pain is not from a problem with the lungs or heart (particularly if it is a pressure type pain).
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.
Most likely costochondritis
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
If the pain is happening with movement of your chest wall (rather than deeper pain), this is likely to be costochondritis. This is inflammation of the connective tissue of the rib cage. Usually it comes on after repetitive motion with the arms, strain from carrying something, or sometimes with excessive coughing.
Treatment is to avoid the thing that set it off, and NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, if you tolerate this class of medication (be sure to take it only when you have food in your stomach to avoid irritation). Providing you don't have a contraindication to taking these, ibuprofen can be taken as 400 mg three times a day for 7-10 days.
If you are not getting relief with these recommendations, then it is time to go in to see your doctor.
Also, if the pain is associated with shortness of breath, cough, light headedness, or other symptoms, then go in to make sure the pain is not from a problem with the lungs or heart (particularly if it is a pressure type pain).
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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