Suggest Treatment For Symptoms Of Costochondritis

Posted on Mon, 21 Nov 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 21 Nov 2016 Answered on

Tue, 13 Dec 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had what appears to be a persistent side "stitch" in my right side abdomin just below the ribs. It started about 3 weeks ago. The pain is usually dull but sometimes a bit more intense. It doesn't go away. If I twist to the right, its a bit more intense. Its not obvious what caused it. I don't have diarrhea. Exercise has no effect. Nothing seems to have an effect either positively or negatively.

Answered by Dr. T Chandrakant (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Looks to be costochondritis

Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query.
To recapitulate: Male/66 - persistent stitch in right side - just below ribs - 3 weeks - usually dull - no factors change except twisting to right - not visited a Doctor - no medications tried ...

As per the history you have provided, this appears to be costochondritis of the lower rib and/or muscular inflammation.

I would suggest the following treatment.
-Rest to the area by means of strapping with the Adhesive tapes during the deep Expiration phase. This will limit the movement, reduce the pain and give rest for healing to occur.
-Anti-inflammatory medicines in full dose as per the weight.
-Steroids if required for its strong anti-inflammatory role.
-Control of stress and anxiety helps a lot, if you have.
-Local rubrafacient liniments if the area is not covered by strapping.
-Confirmation of the diagnosis by local Doctor on palpation and clinical evaluation and to get prescription based medicines after discussing the above points.

This sort of a treatment helps all my patients. and should help you too.

I hope this answer helps you, please feel free to ask for further relevant queries if you feel that there is a gap of communication.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T