Is My Chest Wall Pain From Costochondritis Or Something More Serious?
Sudden chest pain is usually met with anxiety and fear of a heart attack. Research conducted at the National Library of Medicine points out that chest pain that is not related to the heart is experienced by many adults.
It is highly stressful to distinguish between a minor ache in the muscles and a lung issue. You are probably overloaded with trying to make out every twang and breath.
This guideline shows clearly the way of differentiating simple costochondritis and complex thoracic conditions. You will acquire the skills of obtaining relevant, timely medical assistance.
What Is The Difference Between Lung-Related Chest Pain And Costochondritis?
Pain that occurs in the lungs usually appears deep and aggravates itself upon coughing or deep breathing. Costochondritis results in localised pain in the chest that is sharp and painful on the chest wall.
Deep inside the chest cavity
Surface-level, near the breastbone
Dull ache or sharp when breathing
Sharp, stabbing, or tearing
Pressing the chest does not hurt
Extremely tender to physical touch
Coughing, shortness of breath, fever
None, usually isolated to the chest wall
How Can I Tell If My Chest Pain Is Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage between the ribs and the breastbone. The main symptom is sharp and painful chest wall pain.
In the process of deep breathing or physical exercise, you may observe the pain worsening. It normally resembles a heart attack, and this causes panic that is not necessary.
One needs to press the sternum softly to test it. When the area is tender to palpation, then it is probable that it is a chest wall problem.
What Are The Warning Signs Of A Serious Thoracic Condition?
Whereas costochondritis is not serious, other disorders require immediate treatment. NHS guidelines on chest pain explain that the pains that extend to the arms should be treated as an emergency.
Be suspicious of the following key warning signs:
Crippling pain spreads to your jaw, neck, or back.
Even with rest, there is extreme shortness of breath.
Blood or dark yellow sputum and coughing.
High fever with excessive sweating.
These symptoms should prompt an emergency assessment in case you develop them. Vicious warning signs need to be taken seriously before they fade away.
When Should I Visit A Specialist In Maharashtra For Chest Pain?
Chest pain that continues for several weeks would be a reason to involve a thoracic specialist. OTC drugs are not always effective in addressing underlying structural problems.
Patients who require the best thoracic surgeon in Maharashtra tend to present with chronic symptoms. Specialist intervention at the early stages helps to avoid trivial issues and transform them into serious complications.
Unsure about your symptoms? Book an appointment to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Serious Chest Wall Conditions?
Physical examination and high-level imaging are utilised by doctors. A straightforward physical examination easily verifies the inflammation of the surface cartilage.
To explore further issues, medical professionals can use contemporary diagnostic procedures.
The usual diagnostic procedures are the following:
Chest X-Rays: To rule out infection of the lungs or fractures to the ribs.
CT Scans: Scans that present detailed and cross-sectional images of the chest cavity.
ECG Tests: Eliminating acute heart-related crises with due caution.
Where Can I Find Advanced Thoracic Care in Mumbai?
It is important to find the right facility so as to be accurately diagnosed and treated. You require a centre that has new equipment and well-trained staff.
A large number of patients would like to be treated at top thoracic surgery hospital in Mumbai. These institutions deal with complicated cases that would have been handled by the normal local clinics.
Dr Amol Bhanushali is a proponent of advanced thoracic care that is accurate and knowledgeable. His patient-first attitude means that you get the most correct diagnosis.
The pain affecting the chest wall may be caused by harmless costochondritis or may require urgent medical care. It is important to know the distinction between shallow tenderness and deep pulmonary problems. Listening to the warning signs is a sure way to receive effective treatment in a short period of time.
Schedule an appointment with Dr Amol Bhanushali and get the best treatment.
