Chest pain can be a surprising complication of excessive drinking. It usually isn’t caused by the alcohol itself, however.

In most cases, it is a sign that another disease or condition might be present.

In this article, we’ll outline some of the various reasons that your alcohol use might be leading to aches or cramps in your chest.

Here is a video for you if you like to see things rather than read!

Summary: What Causes Chest Pain After Drinking?

• There is a clear link to alcohol use and blood pressure problems.
• Alcohol can trigger or aggravate several serious medical conditions.
• Alcohol use can lead to acute or chronic pancreatitis, a painful and incurable illness.
• Alcohol could be making your medications less effective.
• Using alcohol to deal with pain could be backfiring on you.
• There are other causes of alcohol-related chest pain.
• There is good news about moderate alcohol consumption.

Heavy drinking has been linked to dozens of serious diseases. In the case of your chest pains, there are some alcohol-related conditions that could be causing them.

Alcohol is Linked to High Blood Pressure

There is a strong correlation between drinking alcohol and elevated blood pressure levels. So many people report heart palpitations after a weekend of partying that researchers and doctors coined the term “holiday heart” to describe this phenomenon.

As it turns out, the holiday heart is real. According to various studies, regular consumption of alcohol can lead to swings in blood pressure.

In cases of excessive or binge drinking, that change might become permanent.

For most of the researchers, regular consumption was defined as three drinks per day.

Here are some of the key findings based on studies of healthy people who consumed that amount of alcohol.

High Blood Pressure

• High blood pressure was observed in people who had three or more drinks per day.
• About half of chronic alcoholics have a blood pressure reading of 160/90.
• Blood pressure might spike slightly during alcohol withdrawal.
• Drinkers who combine wine or beer with MAO-inhibiting antidepressants could see dangerous spikes in their blood pressure.
• Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to permanently high blood pressure.
• Withdrawing from alcohol will allow the blood pressure to return to normal within a week.

Low Blood Pressure

• People with blood-alcohol poisoning also experience extremely low blood pressure levels.
• People with an ALDH2 deficiency, meaning they lack the genetic ability to process alcohol, will also suffer severe blood pressure drops.

Why Does High Blood Pressure Matter?

High blood pressure is a chief contributor to heart disease, stroke, and other neurovascular problems. Chronic, untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and many other conditions.

If you’re experiencing frequent heart palpitations, especially after drinking, you should consult a doctor to determine what’s causing it. It might not be anything serious, but it’s better to know.

Certain Illnesses and Conditions are Caused or Aggravated by Alcohol Use

Drinking to excess can lead to more than just a few rough mornings. If you regularly binge drink or wake up hungover, you could be setting yourself up for a major medical problem down the road.

According to WebMD, longtime alcohol abuse can increase your risk of developing several serious illnesses. These are all conditions whose symptoms include chest pains.

Cardiomyopathy

This medical term means “weak heart.” If your heart is starting to fail, it will be unable to circulate blood or oxygen and you’ll be on the road to a heart attack. Cardiac myopathy is an early-stage heart disease that requires aggressive treatment.

Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy

This is a specific type of cardiomyopathy caused by years of heavy drinking. It can occur after several years of drinking seven or more drinks each day. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy usually affects heavy drinkers in their 40s.

Watch this YouTube Video from Dr. Kevin O’Hara that explains in detail the symptoms, treatment, and outlook for alcoholic cardiomyopathy.

Atrial fibrillation

In this condition, the heart begins beating out of rhythm, causing irregular heartbeat and blood pressure swings that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Ventricular fibrillation

In this condition, blood vessels are not able to process oxygen. Left untreated, it can lead to unconsciousness and heart failure.

Could You Have One of These Illnesses?

If you’re concerned that you might be suffering from one of these conditions, your best bet is to visit a doctor’s office or walk-in clinic and request a full physical. You’ll get an early warning of any conditions that warrant your attention.

Upper Abdominal Pain Could be Pancreatitis

If your pain begins in your abdomen and then moves to your chest and back, it could be an early warning sign of pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is an incurable disease that is mostly caused by excessive use of alcohol.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:

• Upper abdominal pain
• Pain that radiates to your back
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting

Repeated bouts of pancreatitis will create permanent damage to your pancreas and can result in several serious complications.

Because a damaged pancreas cannot produce insulin, you could end up with any of these additional diseases caused by poor or insufficient insulin.

These include conditions you might not have had before, such as:

• Diabetes
• Infection and internal bleeding
• Breathing problems
• Malnutrition

If you’re experiencing sudden, intense attacks of abdominal pain, consult a doctor before the symptoms and the complications get worse. There is no cure for chronic pancreatitis but its symptoms can be managed.

Alcohol Could Be Making Your Medications Less Effective

If you are already taking prescription medications, drinking large amounts of alcohol might reduce their effectiveness.

This could lead to a worsening of your symptoms and spikes in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and the associated chest pains.

According to Dr. Danya Qato, a pharmacologist and researcher at Brown University, “The danger of combining alcohol and some medications are real and sometimes fatal.”

Blood Pressure Medications

Alcohol does not mix well with blood pressure medications. People who take beta-blockers while consuming alcohol can experience abnormal heart rhythms, chest pains, and even heart failure.

On the other hand, consuming alcohol while taking angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can result in extremely low drops in blood pressure.

Neither situation is good. If you are taking medication for high blood pressure, ask your doctor if there’s a safe amount of alcohol you can consume.

Cholesterol Medications

Statins are a popular cholesterol medication. Taking them along with moderate amounts of alcohol is usually safe, as long as you follow the government guidelines of one or two drinks per day.

The risk with statins is that they can affect liver function. If you consume high amounts of alcohol every day or have a history of binge drinking, this can double the effect on your liver.

Are You Using Alcohol as an Analgesic?

Do you turn to alcohol as a way to deal with physical pain? Occasionally using alcohol in this way probably won’t hurt you, but if you’re consuming alcohol in response to chronic pain, you could be creating more problems for yourself.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol abuse and Alcoholism, using alcohol as an analgesic is dangerous for several key reasons.

• In order for it to work at dulling pain, you need to consume very high levels of alcohol.
• You eventually develop a tolerance to its effects and will require even higher dosages.
• Mixing alcohol with pain relievers such as aspirin and acetaminophen can increase your risk of developing liver disease and gastric bleeding.

These conditions could also increase your blood pressure, lead to heart palpitations, and aggravate any medical conditions you might have.

What Are Some Other Causes of Alcohol-Related Chest Pain?

Hormonal Problems

Hormonal spikes put stress on your body and can affect your health in a number of ways. Chest pains, leg pains, and other bodily aches can all result from these hormonal troubles.

Here are some of the key hormones affected by alcohol use:

Epinephrine

According to the US National Library of Medicine, Research has found that years of alcohol consumption can lead to spikes in your levels of the hormone epinephrine. This hormone is also known as adrenalin.

Adrenalin stimulates the “fight or flight” response and is accompanied by a rapid heartbeat and spikes in blood pressure.

Constantly stimulating your adrenalin to spike will put pressure on your heart and blood vessels.

Cortisol

Cortisol is known as the “stress hormone.” Elevated levels of this hormone in your system have been linked to weight gain, a strain on the heart, elevated blood pressure, and even premature aging.

You probably know what’s coming next. That’s right. Ever since 1999, researchers have established a direct link between high levels of alcohol consumption and high increases in cortisol levels. This has been established in multiple studies.

Spikes in cortisol have also been observed in people who withdraw from alcohol. This explains the anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal.

Testosterone

Moderate drinking causes a slight increase in the male sex hormone testosterone. But heavy drinking over the years leads to marked decreases in testosterone levels for men.

Low testosterone levels in men can lead to many unwanted side effects including the development of male breasts, low sperm count, and erectile dysfunction. Chronic male drinkers reported low levels of blood testosterone.

Ironically, female chronic drinkers had the opposite result. They had high levels of blood testosterone.

High levels of testosterone in women can lead to excessive facial hair, weight gain, and other negative side effects.

Testosterone levels drop in both men and women during alcohol withdrawal and then return to normal after a period of abstinence.

Sleep Problems

Many people claim that they need alcohol in order to fall asleep. We’re all familiar with the drinker who “passes out” after a night of heavy boozing. But in reality, regularly using alcohol to fall asleep is a bad idea.

Alcohol deprives you of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is the deep sleep that your body needs to restore itself.

Lack of proper sleep is well-established as contributing to numerous physical, emotional, and mental health problems.

Is There Any Good News Here?

There is. You don’t have to cut out all alcohol. In fact, that might not be the healthiest choice. Some medical researchers believe that consuming a small amount of alcohol is better for you than total abstinence.

In this YouTube video, Dr. Marc Gillinov, a heart surgeon with the Cleveland Clinic, explains why he believes it’s healthy to have one glass of wine or beer each day.

Gillinov says that the debate between the type of alcohol you consume is irrelevant. He states that despite the idea that red wine is healthier than white. It’s his view that “It’s the alcohol itself that is heart-healthy.”

Moderation is Key

While Dr. Gillinov says, “Drink up!” Dr. Scott Davis, a cardiologist at Baptist Health Medical Center in Arkansas, reminds us that moderation is key.

Dr. Davis breaks down the effects of alcohol consumption on your heart and explains the link between alcohol abuse and heart disease. You can see his interview.

What You Need to Know About Alcohol and Chest Pains

• Heart palpitations are common after a bout of heavy drinking.
• Moderate drinking is probably healthy for your heart.
• Excessive drinking has direct links to serious illnesses like alcoholic cardiomyopathy and pancreatitis.
• If you’re being treated for high blood pressure or cholesterol, ask your doctor if you should drink alcohol.
• To be on the safe side, enjoy alcohol in moderation.

According to the Mayo Clinic, costochondritis occurs when the patient has inflammation of the cartilage that connects the breastbone to a particular rib.

The pain from this inflammation is similar to the pain a person would feel when having a heart attack or other heart issues.

A variety of terms are used to identify costochondritis, which includes costosternal syndrome, chest wall pain, and costosternal chondrodynia. If the swelling is present, the issue is typically Tietze Syndrome and not costochondritis.

Costochondritis can disappear on its own. However, it can last for weeks or longer. If more information is needed about the definition of costochondritis, physical therapists, Bob Schrupp and Brad Heineck, have created a six-minute YouTube video called “Pain in Chest? Is it Costochondritis?”.

In this video, these experts provide a breakdown of costochondritis. This article will expand on the discussion seen in the video.

What are some interesting facts about costochondritis? 

According to this eMedicine Health article, some facts associated with costochondritis include:

• It affects females more than males at a ratio of 70% to 30%.
• This disease accounts for 10% to 30% of all chest pain issues in children.
• The peak age for costochondritis is people over 40 years old.
• Physicians exam around 650,000 cases of costochondritis every year.
• Costochondritis is the leading cause of musculoskeletal chest pain.
• Costochondritis does not cause swelling.

What are some of the common causes of costochondritis? 

Costochondritis comes from an inflammation process, but the definite cause has yet to be determined. According to WebMD, three items can contribute to chest pain caused by costochondritis.

These three items are minor trauma to the chest area, viral respiratory infections, and the overuse of the arms.

Bacterial infections associated with costochondritis can happen in IV drug users and those patients who have had surgery in the upper chest area.

This fact is true because, after surgery, the blood flow in the area of the operation is reduced. This reduction causes the cartilage to become more prone to infections.

WebMD also states that some of the most common infectious diseases that can cause costochondritis are:

• Viral- Viral diseases cause costochondritis because of straining from coughing and the inflammation from the actual infection.
• Bacterial- After surgery, bacterial infections can cause costochondritis.
• Fungal- While fungal infections can cause costochondritis, it is scarce.

What are some common symptoms of costochondritis? 

The most predominant symptom of costochondritis is a pain in the area of the upper ribs. This pain is caused by inflammation, which is the primary trigger of costochondritis.

Typically, this inflammation is located where the upper portion of the ribs meets the breastbone or sternum. This area is referred to as the sternocostal joint or costosternal articulation.

The symptom of pain is localized but can vary in intensity. Some individuals have experienced very mild pain while others experience intensely debilitating pain.

In mild cases, the chest may be tender to the touch. In more severe cases, shooting pains may travel to your limbs, back, and abdomen.

When should a person seek medical care for costochondritis? 

If an individual is experiencing any of the following symptoms, he or she should seek medical care:

• Breathing trouble
• Redness, pus, swelling, or other signs of infection
• Pain worsens with medication
• High fever
• Dizziness when sitting or standing
• Nausea or excessive sweating

However, WebMD reminds patients that the following symptoms are not typically associated with costochondritis and may indicate a more pressing issue:

• Fevers about 100° that do not respond to fever-reducers
• Pus, redness, extreme pain, swelling, and other signs of infection at the tender spot
• Chest pain that is not localized (This type of chest pain can be persistent and may be accompanied by sweating, nausea, and left arm pain. If a person is experiencing this type of chest pain, it may be signs of a heart attack.)

WebMD encourages a person to go directly to an emergency room or urgent care center if he or she is having any of these conditions or any breathing trouble.

How does a physician diagnose costochondritis? 

A physician will evaluate the patient’s health history first and then complete a physical exam. During the physical exam, the doctor will feel along the breastbone where it connects to the ribs.

He or she will apply pressure to this area looking for tenderness or swelling. The doctor may also move the arms and rib cage in different formations. He or she does this to trigger the patient’s symptoms.

The pain a patient feels with costochondritis mimics the pain a person feels with other medical issues. These conditions include osteoarthritis, gastrin intestinal problems, heart disease, and lung disease.

Since there is not a particular test to diagnose costochondritis, the physician will perform tests and exams to rule out the other conditions with similar symptoms as costochondritis.

What exams and tests can be performed to diagnose costochondritis? 

Because there isn’t a specific test to diagnose costochondritis, a physician will typically explore the patient’s medical history or perform a physical exam to diagnose the condition.

It is important to note that a physician may utilize a variety of tests to rule out the possibility of other conditions with similar symptoms. One of the more dangerous situations that have similar symptoms is heart disease.

The first exam will involve the fourth to sixth ribs. A doctor will try to reproduce the pain or tenderness. He or she will also feel for swelling. If the swelling is present, the patient may have Tietze Syndrome and not costochondritis.

Sometimes a doctor will order blood work and a chest x-ray. Neither of these tests can help diagnose costochondritis, but both can help to identify heart disease or infection.

According to Healthline, if your physician believes infection is the cause of the pain, he or she will do the following physical exams and tests:

• Look for pus, redness, drainage, and swelling
• Ask for a gallium scan to be performed
• Evaluate the white blood cell count
• Ask for a chest x-ray to check for pneumonia
• Ask for ECG or other heart tests to help eliminate heart issues as a cause

What current methods are used to treat costochondritis condition?

Costochondritis is not treated itself; however, the pain and inflammation caused by the condition are treated. A variety of methods are used to ensure relief from the pain.

These methods include home remedies, medications, exercises, natural remedies, prescription therapies, and surgery.

What are some home remedies used to relieve pain from costochondritis? 

After the patient has been diagnosed with costochondritis, he or she has a variety of treatment options. One of these options involves utilizing home remedies.

Some home remedies associated with relieving the pain caused by costochondritis include: 

• Using heat and ice on the area to relieve acute pain
• Reduce or eliminate unnecessary exercises and activities that worsen the symptoms
• Complete stretching exercises daily
• Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Motrin, Aleve)

What are some of the leading medications for costochondritis? 

In most cases of costochondritis, the condition goes away within a few weeks, regardless of treatment. Typically, the treatment involves providing relief from the pain. Prescription medications may be used to make the healing process more bearable.

The four types of conventional drugs a doctor may prescribe are anti-seizure drugs, narcotics, antidepressants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.

One example of an anti-seizure drug used to control chronic costochondritis pain is gabapentin. Hydrocodone and oxycodone are narcotics that are sometimes prescribed to control severe pain.

When a person is losing sleep due to the pain associated with costochondritis, a doctor may prescribe tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline. This drug is an antidepressant used to control chronic pain.

The most common prescription medicine used for costochondritis is NSAIDs. These types of drugs include ibuprofen, Motrin, and other stronger varieties.

A physician will offer other treatment options before prescribing these medications because each one has side effects.

NSAIDs have been blamed for stomach lining and kidney damage. Narcotics are incredibly addictive and habit-forming.

Antidepressants have a connection to an increased chance of developing bipolar disorder and mania.

What type of exercises can be used to treat costochondritis? 

When a doctor recommends exercises for the treatment of costochondritis, he or she is referring to stretching exercises.

Strenuous physical activities can cause costochondritis to be triggered or worsen, while stretching can actually have a relieving effect on the patient.

According to Dr. Mercola, a study involving the use of NSAIDs found that patients did not have any relief until stretching exercises were added to the treatment plan.

An example of a stretching exercise consists of the patient holding his or her arms up where the arm is bent parallel to a wall. The patient applies pressure to the wall while twisting in the opposite direction.

What natural remedies can be used to treat costochondritis? 

A variety of options are available to treat costochondritis pain naturally. Some experts believe a few simple changes to a person’s lifestyle can treat costochondritis. One of the first steps a patient should take is changing eating and exercising habits.

The best food diet for a person who suffers from costochondritis pain is an anti-inflammatory diet. According to Dr. Mercola, this diet includes foods high in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.

Nuts, green leafy vegetables, seeds, and bone broth are some examples of anti-inflammatory foods. Eliminating or avoiding sugars and refined grains are also part of a costochondritis healthy diet.

Exercise is excellent, but a person with this condition should avoid activities that involve sharp or sudden movements that apply pressure to the chest.

Another natural remedy is to use analgesic and anti-inflammatory herbs. These herbs include ginger, fennel, ginseng, devil’s claw, chamomile, and Gotu Kola.

Are there any prescription therapies available to treat costochondritis? 

When home remedies and other treatments do not work, WebMD states some physicians will prescribe a variety of interventions to encourage relief from the pain associated with costochondritis.

Physical therapy is one of these interventions. This type of treatment involves utilizing physical methods to treat a variety of injuries.

These physical methods include heat treatment, exercise, and massage. Physical therapy is known to be excellent in treating a variety of musculoskeletal pain.

Another intervention is local injections lidocaine and corticosteroids. When the costochondritis pain is severe and does not respond to other treatments, a physician may recommend these types of steroids to provide relief.

However, these types of prescription therapies are typically saved as a last resort.

Can surgery be performed to treat costochondritis? 

If a person has tried home remedies, medications, exercise, natural remedies, and prescription therapies without experiencing relief from costochondritis, a physician may explore surgery as a treatment option. Surgery is considered to be a drastic method for treating costochondritis.

This fact is especially true because costochondritis typically heals itself within a few weeks. One example of a surgical cure for this condition is removing the painful cartilage. This procedure is an invasive process with its own risks.

It would take time for a person to heal from the procedure thoroughly. During the healing process, a person may experience pain similar to costochondritis making the treatment as painful as the condition.

Before choosing surgery as a treatment option, a person should talk to the physician to ensure the patient has a complete picture of the situation.

What is the best treatment for costochondritis? 

A variety of doctors have very different opinions on this subject. Some physicians would say medicine, while others would say therapy exercise. The Mayo Clinic would suggest a combination of treatments in stages.

If the condition has been identified and no other more serious conditions are present, lifestyle changes and home remedies should be used.

If the patient’s condition worsens or the pain is not relieved, stretching exercises or nerve stimulation can be added to the treatment pain.

When the pain from costochondritis is extreme, medications prescribed by a physician may become necessary.

How to find relief from costochondritis? 

The only way to find relief from costochondritis is to alleviate the pain using the above methods.

These methods include using medications or using pain-relieving creams. Stretching exercising may provide relief from the pain of costochondritis.

A variety of home remedies and natural remedies are also available to help lessen the pain associated with costochondritis.

With treatment, the pain should gradually decrease with a few days. Without treatment, symptoms will also lesson, but it may take much longer.

Are there ways to prevent a person from developing costochondritis? 

Although costochondritis is a relatively harmless condition, it can be irritating and painful. The fabulous news is it may be almost entirely preventable according to Dr. Mercola supports the idea that to prevent costochondritis; the patient must avoid triggers.

These triggers are the items that put the sternocostal joint or the costosternal articulation in jeopardy of becoming inflamed.

Physical strain is one of the primary triggers associated with costochondritis. Dr. Mercola gives the following tips to avoid injuries from exercising:

• The patient should always warm-up so the core temperature is increased and blood flow is boosted.
• The individual should have a variety of routines to give the different muscles a break while still working out.
• If an individual doesn’t know how to start an exercise regiment, a personal trainer should be considered to avoid injuries.
• A person needs to ensure to eat the types of foods that help repair muscles and help people stay hydrated.
• The right workout clothes can also help prevent exercise injuries.

Besides physical strain, infections are the second most common reason inflammation happens. The best way to fight infections is to keep the immune system in optimal working condition.

This fact can be accomplished by eating right, sleeping enough, getting probiotics, and decreasing stress.

Who is at risk for developing costochondritis? 

According to Healthline, costochondritis can affect anyone of any age, but it appears more often in women and those who are over the age of 40.

If a person participates in the following activities, he or she is also at a higher risk of developing costochondritis:

• Men and women who engage in high-impact activities such as vigorous exercises.
• Men and women who perform manual labor as a career.
• Individuals who are exposed to massive quantities of irritants or have extreme allergies.

A variety of other health conditions can also increase the risk of having or developing costochondritis.

These health conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, pregnancy, ankylosing spondylitis, and reactive arthritis.

It is also vital to mention that when heavy loads are mishandled, it can stress the muscles of the chest.

Young adults and children should use care when lifting heavy bags and backpacks. Adults should use caution when performing manual labor.

What are some complications of costochondritis? 

When costochondritis causes long-term pain, it can be debilitating when left untreated. However, if the inflammation and pain are treated, costochondritis typically goes away on its own according to Dr. Mercola.

Sometimes the pain associated with costochondritis can indicate other conditions such as heart disease and fibromyalgia.

After evaluating these facts, it is safe to assume there are no serious complications related to costochondritis unless it develops into chronic costochondritis.

What is chronic costochondritis and is it curable? 

Chronic costochondritis is when the pain and inflammation associated with the condition last for a prolonged period. If a person has developed chronic costochondritis, the pain may go away and then return even with treatment.

Specific activities and exercises may trigger a chronic costochondritis episode. If a person develops a chronic case of this condition, he or she needs to investigate long-term care.

Long-term care can ensure this chronic condition does not affect the individual’s quality of life or ability to engage in daily activities.

Chronic costochondritis can last for weeks, but most chronic cases do not last longer than one year.

A person can decrease the chances of developing chronic costochondritis by following doctor’s orders and carrying and lifting heavy loads correctly.

He or she should also reduce the amount of high-impact exercises and manual labor performed.

What is the prognosis for people who have costochondritis? 

According to WebMD, the prognosis of costochondritis recovery is excellent. Typically, most patients see a complete lessening in the condition within a few days to six months.

After one year, only 50% of patients complain of mild discomfort, and 33% complain of tenderness with palpation. In both cases, a complete recovery is almost 100%.

Is costochondritis life threatening?

Some individuals who suffer from costochondritis would say the pain feels like they are dying. However, in reality, costochondritis is not fatal.

If a patient has only costochondritis, he or she is in no danger of dying, but it is incredibly critical for the patient to rule out any other significant conditions that may be adding or causing the pain.

It is essential to know if the symptoms are caused only by costochondritis because other conditions may be life-threatening if left untreated.

Is costochondritis hereditary? 

According to Healthline, costochondritis involves the cartilage where the ribs meet the breastbone.

An inflammation of this cartilage causes the pain. Similar to other inflammation diseases, the exact cause of costochondritis is not known at this time.

However, many experts believe heredity or a genetic predisposition, trauma, or a virus may play a role in costochondritis developing.

How long does costochondritis last? 

Dr. Mercola states that typically, costochondritis is not a persistent condition. It will almost always go away on its own even without treatment.

When a person experiences mild costochondritis, the pain and other symptoms may go away in a few days.

However, chronic cases can last from weeks to months in some cases. If a person avoids excess manual labor and high-impact exercises, the condition may heal faster. This fact is also true if the person gets plenty of rest and sleep.

Regardless of whether the costochondritis is minor or a chronic case, very few patients experience any symptoms for longer than a year.

How are costochondritis and Tietze’s syndrome different? 

According to Scotland’s National Health Information Service, Tietze’s syndrome is frequently confused with costochondritis.

This confusion occurs because both conditions involve the costochondral joint being inflamed. Both conditions can also cause other remarkably similar symptoms.

A significant difference between the two conditions is costochondritis is somewhat common while Tietze’s syndrome is much less common. Tietze also causes chest swelling. This swelling can last long after the tenderness and pain have gone away.

Typically, if a person has costochondritis, he or she does not experience any swelling, and the pain is localized.

Another significant difference is costochondritis affects adults over 40 while Tietze’s syndrome usually happens to people under the age of 40.

Can RA cause costochondritis?

RA stands for Rheumatoid Arthritis which is a chronic condition. This condition causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

It also can cause fatigue and muscle pain. The primary cause of RA is the body’s immune system is making too much TNF-alpha and other proteins.

Most of these proteins being overproduced encourage inflammation which causes the above RA symptoms.

Even though costochondritis is not directly related to Rheumatoid Arthritis, the condition can increase the likelihood of injury or damage to the rib cage.

When a person has RA, his or her joints do not work correctly. This fact means he or she can quickly move the wrong way and cause more damage to already weakened or damaged joints.

In conclusion, costochondritis and RA are connected, and the symptoms associated with RA can promote costochondritis.

Is costochondritis related to arthritis?

Almost every joint in a person’s body can develop some form of arthritis. The general arthritis term translates as joint inflammation.

This term can be used to describe over 100 different joint diseases. Some types of arthritis even affect other sections of a person’s body.

It can affect the internal organs and skin causing a rash or fever. The inflammation caused by arthritis can lead to damage to tissue if the individual has suffered for prolonged time periods.

Inflammatory arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body sends messed up messages to the white blood cells.

These messages cause the blood cells to attack the tissues of the body. This attack can lead to inflammation which in turn can be described as costochondritis.

So according to the Mayo Clinic, arthritis can be related to costochondritis because of this inflammation.

Can anxiety cause costochondritis?

According to the Mayo Clinic, there isn’t a confirmed link between costochondritis and stress and anxiety at this time. However, stress and anxiety can be a reason behind chest pain.

When a person has a panic attack or a panic disorder, he or she may experience shortness of breath as well as tightness or pain in the chest area as symptoms.

Some of the treatments for anxiety and stress can alleviate the pain caused by costochondritis.

These treatments include acupuncture, yoga, massage, breathing exercises, and stretching. While these treatments are reducing the person’s stress and anxiety levels, they are also helping the individual to relax which is also an excellent treatment for costochondritis.

How does pregnancy affect costochondritis? 

A woman’s rib cage can be stretched during pregnancy. This stretching can cause inflammation, pain, and discomfort within the connective cartilage.

A pregnant woman presents a unique issue when it comes to this condition and the available treatments for it.

During the second trimester according to Healthline, it is prevalent for the woman to feel discomfort in the area of the rib cage. The woman’s body is expanding to accommodate the baby as he or she grows.

The growth of the stomach causes pain, tenderness, swelling, and soreness to develop near or in the rib cage region.

Because of the woman’s body changing, rib dysfunction is common in the back or side of the rib cage.

Costochondritis in pregnant women involves pain which is caused by tightness, stress, and tiredness of the intercostal fibers.

Inflammation causes this stress and fatigue. The unique dilemma with pregnancy and costochondritis is the available treatment options.

Various drugs and therapies are not appropriate or safe for pregnant women. This fact requires alternative treatments designed for pregnant women including the use of a pregnancy pillow or a belly support brace.

Both of these alternatives can help alleviate pain and discomfort by taking the stress away from the rib cage.

Can costochondritis cause fibromyalgia? 

Costochondritis does not cause fibromyalgia, but fibromyalgia may cause costochondritis. Because fibromyalgia patients deal with an excessive amount of pains all over their bodies, sometimes they do not realize the chest or rib pain is a separate condition.

Other sources of pain can worsen fibromyalgia (FMS), so it is vital to treat costochondritis. FMS and costochondritis go hand in hand but many experts do not entirely believe the chest pain felt with FMS is costochondritis.

These same experts are not even sure why the two are so intimately connected. However, according to Dr. Mercola, one established theory is FMS is associated with inflammation of the fascia.

The fascia is the thin layer of tissue used as a connector within the body. This connective tissue may be one of the reasons costochondritis is so prevalent in FMS patients.

Can costochondritis cause pain in the breast? 

The very definition of costochondritis verifies that it will cause pain in the breast area. The Mayo Clinic declares that costochondritis is an inflammation of cartilage.

The Mayo Clinic also says that one of the defining characteristics of this condition is the pain the patient feels in the costosternal joint.

This joint is where a rib attaches to the sternum which is located directly behind the breast. The sharp pain of costochondritis can seem to be radiating from the breast when, in fact, it is coming from behind the breast.

Can costochondritis cause pain in the arm? 

According to WebMD, when discussing the main symptoms of costochondritis, pain and tenderness where the ribs meet the breastbone is the number one symptom. The pain will increase when the patient moves or breathes deeply.

The pain will decrease when the patient lies downs, rests, and his or her breathing is quiet. Typically, this pain varies in intensity.

When it is severe, it is described as sharp or extreme pressure-like. This pain radiates from the front of the chest and can travel to the abdomen, arm, back, or shoulder.

However, the pain generally stays on the left side of the chest, but sometimes many people say it affects both sides.

However, if this common morning ritual causes you pain, it is important to get to the bottom concerning why.

There are several reasons why pain in the chest can occur when you stretch. Once you know what these are, it can aid you in getting an accurate diagnosis.

Exploring the Chest Anatomy 

Having a basic understanding of the anatomy of the chest is imperative to see why certain conditions can cause chest pain when you stretch.

The muscles in this part of the body are what you want to focus on.

This video provides valuable information and a solid visual representation of these muscles.

There are four primary chest muscles to know about. These include: 

• Pectoralis major works to help move the scapula and upper limbs
• Pectoralis minor stabilizes the scapula
• Serratus anterior makes it possible to raise your arm more than 90 degrees
• Subclavius depresses and anchors the clavicle

The ribs can also be a source of chest pain when stretching, so knowing the basics helps you to see why pain may occur.

There are 12 rib bones that comprise the rib cage with costal cartilages and the sternum.

This video helps you to visualize the ribs and provides important anatomy information.

What You Need to Know About Costochondritis

In the United States, more than six million people go to the emergency room each year for chest pain and musculoskeletal causes like costochondritis are common culprits, according to Robert Oh and Jeremy Johnson.

This condition is characterized by inflammation affecting the cartilage that connects the sternum and rib bones.

In most cases, the pain is to the left of the sternum. It is often described as sharp, pressure-like or aching.

Doctors usually cannot identify an exact cause for this condition. However, it may be associated with an injury, arthritis, tumors, physical strain or a joint infection.

It typically resolves on its own, but this can take several weeks.

When the pain is especially severe, it may mimic a heart attack. Because of this, those who go to the emergency room usually have a heart attack ruled out before getting a costochondritis diagnosis.

Treatment is largely focused on alleviating pain. This often involves medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, narcotics and antiseizure drugs.

Certain types of therapy might also be beneficial. Gentle stretching might be recommended.

Some patients may also benefit from nerve stimulation using a TENS unit. This interrupts pain signals to reduce pain severity.

Get the Facts About a Muscle Strain

Muscle strains are common and may involve the chest or intercostal muscles. This injury is characterized by the muscle fibers either tearing or stretching.

There are two primary reasons strains occur: the muscle was forced to very strongly contract, or it was stretched past its limits, according to Harvard Medical School.

In addition to pain, patients may experience bruising, reduced range of motion, swelling, weakness, and spasms.

Trouble breathing is possible with an intercostal strain. There are three strain grades: 

• Grade One: Mild with only a few torn or stretched muscle fibers.
• Grade Two: Moderate with considerably more injured muscle fibers.
• Grade Three: The most severe and characterized by a complete muscle tear.

Strains may occur as a result of poor conditioning or flexibility, direct trauma, improperly warming up before physical activity, fatigue and exertion.

Sudden and abnormal body movements may also contribute to a strain.

For mild strains, basic first aid is typically sufficient for treatment. This includes using ice, rest and compression. While sleeping, elevate the chest with pillows or by sleeping in a recliner.

For more severe strains, physical therapy and medications might be necessary to help alleviate pain and stiffness.

When there is a complete muscle tear, patients might require surgery to repair the damage.

What Are Sternoclavicular Joint Disorders?

The shoulder is made up of four joints, one of which is the sternoclavicular joint. A contact sports injury or a car accident can cause these disorders in this joint.

In most cases, these disorders are minor, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

In addition to injuries, certain conditions are associated with these disorders. These conditions include osteoarthritis, infection and rheumatoid arthritis.

Pain where the sternum and clavicle meet is the most common symptom. Patients might also experience a reduced range of motion, bruising, swelling or a grinding or crunching noise when attempting to move their arm.

Doctors will start by assessing the joint and chest to look for the symptoms of these disorders.

They will also ask about when the symptoms began to determine the underlying cause.

Most patients can be treated with nonsurgical therapies. These may include: 

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are common since they can decrease swelling and pain. Oral or injected corticosteroids might also be considered.

Activity modification

If certain movements, such as stretching, cause pain, modifying these can be beneficial.

Immobilization

When an injury is to blame, immobilizing the arm of the affected joint may help to promote healing. This generally involves wearing a shoulder sling.

While uncommon, surgery might be indicated in certain cases. For example, an open reduction for a dislocation of the joint or draining the infection if an infection caused the disorder. With an infection, antibiotics are also prescribed.

Looking into Muscle Spasms

Spasms can occur in any muscle, but one of the most common places for them is the ribcage area, according to MedlinePlus.

When they occur in this area, stretching or other movements may cause pain in the chest area.

The pain can range from severe to just mild twitching. When pressing down on the spasming muscle, it might feel harder than usual or there may be a visual distortion in the area.

A number of factors may contribute to muscle spasms in the ribcage:

• Not stretching properly before exercise
• Exercising in excessively hot environments
• Electrolyte imbalances with magnesium, potassium, and calcium
• Muscle fatigue
• Dehydration

Unless spasms are caused by a medical condition, conservative intervention can typically alleviate the pain.

Stretching the muscle can be helpful even when it causes pain. Simply do this gently and massage the muscle during the stretch.

Alternating ice and heat are commonly used for spasms. Apply each for 15 to 20 minutes and alternate between them.

What is Tietze Syndrome?

This condition is characterized by swelling and pain affecting at least one cartilage of an upper rib.

It is possible for more than one of the upper ribs to be affected. This inflammatory disorder is considered rare.

The pain may come on suddenly, or over time. The pain usually resolves after several months or weeks, but it is possible for the swelling to persist once the pain is gone, according to the National Organization for Rare Diseases.

It is unknown why people develop this condition. However, it appears to be most common in those under age 40.

It is not considered a serious issue, but the pain and swelling can be debilitating.

The symptoms usually resolve on their own. However, to help alleviate the pain and swelling, doctors may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Home measures, including rest, using ice and heat and limited physical activity, may also help.

When drugs and home measures fail to control the pain, steroid injections into the painful area might be beneficial.

However, these can only be done a few times since there is a risk of joint damage if they are given too frequently.

What You Need to Know About Arthritis

Arthritis is an umbrella term to describe a joint disease and there are more than 100 different types.

In the United States alone, it is estimated that over 300,000 children and 50 million adults have at least one type of arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

It is possible for arthritis to affect the sternoclavicular joint. When this happens, it is usually the result of either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is characterized by cartilage breaking down due to wear and tear.

Once the cartilage is significantly worn down, this can cause the bones associated with it to essentially grind on each other. This can result in restricted movement and pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition. The synovial membrane that lines the joint capsule is attacked by the immune system.

Swelling and pain result. Eventually, the joint’s bones and cartilage can become destroyed by the disease.

The first step in treatment is getting underlying arthritis under control. For osteoarthritis, this typically involves anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, physical therapy.

Rheumatoid arthritis is autoimmune, so treatment can be more extensive and complicated.

Treatment is focused on reducing how badly the immune system is attacking the body.

This may include a combination of the following:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
• Steroids
• Biologic agents

Surgery can be used for severe damage to certain joints to replace them with an artificial joint.

Unfortunately, this is not an option for the sternoclavicular joint. For this joint, resection arthroplasty might be considered.

During this surgical procedure, a portion of the sternoclavicular joint is removed. As healing occurs, scar tissue fills the empty space.

This is done to alleviate pain. However, it is generally not considered unless the patient has fully exhausted all other options.

Exploring the Facts Concerning Sternal Instability

This is a condition someone may experience following a chest surgery where the sternum was separated.

This instability is an abnormal motion of the sternum. Left untreated, this may result in non-union, sternal pain, and infection.

Sternal instability can cause the sensation of clunking or clicking in the chest. This causes discomfort and pain when people are doing basic things, such as stretching their arms above their head.

This instability is highly associated with mediastinitis development. This involves an infection deep in the sternal wound that requires extensive drainage and debridement.

The survival rate among those with instability and mediastinitis 65 percent according to Donald Shaw, et al.

A number of factors may increase a patient’s risk of sternal instability: 

• Obesity
• Large chest circumference or breasts
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Diabetes
• Prolonged steroid use
• Prolonged mechanical ventilation
• Blood transfusions
• History of smoking
• Beta-adrenergic agonist medication use
• Osteoporosis
• Repeat or off-center sternotomy
• Renal failure
• a Persistent or a chronic cough

To reduce the risk of this complication following surgery, patients are often put under sternal precautions.

In addition, management may include: 

•  External bracing
• Wearing a supportive bra
• Trunk stabilization exercises
• Surgery

Those monitoring the patient will perform an assessment to determine the grade of the instability. This aids them in making the proper management choices.

Learning About Calcification of Cartilage in the Sternum

Calcification is characterized by calcium accumulating. This can cause a hardening of the body structure where calcification is happening.

As people get older, calcification of the costal cartilage happens. Under normal circumstances, the volume of calcified cartilage should increase at approximately seven percent per decade, according to S.A. Holcombe, et al.

Certain factors may increase the rate of calcification. These include:

• Infections
• High calcium levels in the blood
• Persistent inflammation
• Autoimmune or genetic disorders that affect the connective tissues and skeleton

It is important to note that consuming a calcium-rich diet is not believed to increase the risk of calcification.

Researchers have not found a link between calcium deposits and a calcium-rich diet, according to Harvard University.

To treat calcification, doctors will first determine why it is happening in the first place.

If it is due to aging and the volume is not considered excessive for the person’s age, they may elect not to prescribe treatment.

If the pain in the sternum area is difficult to cope with, patients may be prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Icing the area can also help. In rare instances, surgical interventions may be needed.

Those experiencing chest pain when they stretch should consult with their physician.

It is important to get an accurate diagnosis because from here you can work with your doctor to develop a plan to alleviate the pain.

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs with 12 of ribs on the left side and 12 on the right.

As explained in an article by Medical News Today, this structure houses and protects important organs in the body including the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, and pancreas. Below the rib cage are the gallbladder and kidneys.

The ribs are attached to the front of the breastbone (sternum) by cartilage and to the back by the spine.

Injury, infection, or inflammation of any of these organs, the rib bones, or the cartilage at the breastbone can cause pain in the rib cage.

What is Rib Pain? 

Rib pain, or ribcage pain as it is also called, is not necessarily a medical condition of itself but rather a symptom of some underlying disorder, disease or health condition.

Rib pain can occur under the right or left rib cage, generally due to issues with the organs or tissues.

This type of pain can be a quite discomforting with the level of discomfort ranging from minor to severe. Its severity depends mostly on the cause and symptoms.

The reasons for rib pain may not be easy to determine since there are a number issues and medical problems that cause rib pain.

In fact, it can be caused by something as minor as indigestion after dinner or a serious health condition such as an impending heart attack.

“Sometimes a pain under the rib is nothing more than you slept wrong, or you exercised too hard,” says Dr. Gregory Cooper, a gastroenterologist at the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, in an article published by Today.

Though some of the causes of rib pain are benign and not life-threatening, you should seek medical attention judging from the severity of the pain, the symptoms, and how long they last.

What Causes Rib Pain? 

A common reason for rib pain is injury or trauma caused by a direct blow to the chest such as during a vehicular accident. Bruises, broken bones, or fractures may result and cause rib pain.

Forceful pressure on the muscle or bad posture may cause strain resulting in pain.

Additionally, rib pain may be caused by various health or medical conditions.

According to Jon Yaneff, CNP, in his article What Are the Causes of Rib Pain?, published online at Doctor’s Health Press, rib pain can be minor or serious depending on if it occurs on the left or right side.

Even though some conditions that cause rib pain may be more serious than others, you should seek medical attention if the symptoms and pain persist.

Rib Pain Caused by Injury 

• Bruised ribs
• Broken or fractured ribs
• Rib cartilage injury
• Strained muscles from exercise or lifting

Rib Pain Caused by Inflammation 

Costochondritis

Also known as chest wall syndrome, costochondritis occurs when the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone becomes inflamed.

It may mimic symptoms of a heart attack and the pain seem to worsen when breathing or moving.

This musculoskeletal chest pain may go away on its own or require medical attention.

Gastritis

This is caused by inflammation of the stomach lining. Alcohol abuse and bacterial or viral infections commonly cause gastritis.

Fullness or bloating in the upper abdomen and a burning pain that radiates to the rib cage can cause rib pain.

Fibromyalgia

A sharp, stabbing, burning or throbbing pain felt in the upper chest or left rib cage may be due to fibromyalgia.

This condition is described in an article published by Mayo Clinic as one that causes “widespread musculoskeletal pain.”

Appendicitis

Severe infection or inflammation of the appendix, also known as appendicitis, is a known cause of a sharp pain under the right side of the rib cage.

Although the most common symptom is a pain in the abdomen, the pain may shift to other parts of the body including under the right rib cage.

Pancreatitis

Gallstones, alcohol abuse or injury can cause inflammation of the pancreas, located at the upper left side of the body. Pain can start slow and worsen, especially after eating and can be felt in the rib.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Symptoms such as abdominal pain or cramps caused by inflammatory bowel disease may ‘refer’ pain to the rib cage.

Ulcerative colitis and Chron’s Disease are two types of IBD’s, and the pain caused may be felt either under the right or left rib cage.

Rib Pain Caused by Heart Problems 

Pericarditis

The pericardium is a membrane that surrounds and protects the heart muscles. Pericarditis occurs when the membrane becomes inflamed, for example, due to a viral infection or rheumatoid arthritis.

Pain under the left rib cage or chest is a common symptom of this condition, in addition to weakness or fever, etc.

Heart Attack

Pain under the left rib cage is a common symptom of a heart attack, a potentially fatal condition.

It is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath and a squeezing sensation in the chest.

Angina

The pressure in the chest or pain under the left rib cage may be associated with angina. Narrowed or blocked arteries deprive the heart muscles of oxygen resulting in this pain.

Rib Pain Caused by Digestive Problems 

Stomach Gas

Gas can accumulate under the right or left side of the rib cage due to chronic digestive disorders.

When excessive gas cause pain and discomfort on the left side, it is called splenic flexure syndrome.

When it occurs on the right side, it is called hepatic flexure syndrome. These syndromes are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Stomach Ulcers

These include gastric ulcers, peptic ulcers, and duodenal ulcers which are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.

In addition to causing a burning stomach pain, stomach ulcers commonly cause a dull pain in the left rib cage.

Heartburn

A type of rib pain that occurs on the left side of the rib cage and often mistaken for a symptom of heart attack is that caused by heartburn or acid reflux.

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid moves backward and upwards into the esophagus.

Indigestion

Discomfort and pain under the breastbone where the ribs are attached may be caused by indigestion.

The pain or discomfort is often felt in the lower area of the rib cage and may be accompanied by a burning sensation in the upper abdomen.

Fecal Impaction

This condition can cause pain in the left or ride sight of the rib cage. Fecal impaction is due to issues with the colon that make it difficult to move the bowel.

Kidney Stones

People suffering from kidney stones complain of feeling a sharp, intense pain in the lower left rib cage.

As the name suggests, kidney stones are small stones that form when minerals and salt calcify in the kidney.

Rib Pain Caused by Lung Problems 

Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism is a dangerous and potentially fatal condition that causes rib pain.

According to an article published online at Everyday Health, pulmonary embolism result when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the lungs.

The sharp pain is typically felt under the right side of the rib cage

Lung Cancer

Many symptoms of lung cancer, a life-threatening condition, occur in or affect the chest.

This is according to Lung Cancer.Org. Coughing and chest pain associated with lung cancer can cause pain to radiate to the rib.

Pleurisy

A sharp stabbing pain felt especially at the left side of the rib cage may be a sign of pleurisy.

This condition occurs due to trauma or bacterial, viral, or fungal infection that causes inflammation of lung tissues.

Other Causes of Rib Pain 

Gallbladder

Several problems with the gallbladder can cause sudden pain that radiates to the rib cage.

Biliary colic may result in pain when the gallbladder contracts to pump bile around the gallstones.

Acute cholecystitis also causes rib pain due to inflammation of the gallbladder.

Damaged Spleen

Located in the upper abdomen and under the left rib cage is an organ known as the spleen.

The spleen can become enlarged or damaged resulting in pain under the left rib cage or left side of the abdomen.

Liver Problems

A dull or severe pain can occur under the right rib cage due to issues with the liver.

Acute Anxiety

Rib pain may be felt in people suffering from anxiety, a condition of feeling impending doom even though there is no present danger.

With severe anxiety, a person may panic, their heart may race, or their chest may feel tight or hurt causing a feeling of rib pain.

Symptoms of Rib Cage Pain 

The most obvious symptom of rib cage pain is the pain in the rib. So, the sign of pain is a symptom of itself.

Symptoms are often identified based on the location they are felt. General symptoms of this condition include the following, but may vary from one individual to another:

• A sudden sharp pain felt under the rib cage
• Dull ache in the rib area
• Sharp or dull pain in the chest or at the navel
• Pain in the rib that lasts for days or weeks
• Pain may be constant or ‘on and off’
• Pain in the rib that radiates to other parts of the body (e.g., the shoulders, neck, or jaw
• Tenderness or soreness in the rib cage
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Pain that worsens when moving or breathing
• Fevers or chills
• Nausea or vomiting

The following is an informative YouTube video that provides a quick summary of some of the main causes of rib cage pain.

It is useful because it provides information on additional reasons for rib pain.

It also expands on the symptoms associated with the conditions that cause rib cage pain already discussed in this article.

This information can help a person determine if the pain felt in the rib cage is just a fleeting pain not associated with any serious condition; or one associated with a possibly serious or life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.

Rib Pain Treatment

Pain can be felt on the right side or left side of the rib cage, between the ribs, in the chest, abdomen, and other parts of the body.

This usually makes it challenging to determine the root cause of the pain.

Because rib pain is caused by a variety of conditions, treatment is not a one-size-fits-all.

Some conditions that rib pain may resolve on their own while some may need minimal treatment. In other cases, emergency medical attention is required.

However, because rib pain could also be due to a serious or life-threatening condition, it is imperative to seek medical attention to rule these out, says Celeste Cooper, R.N. Cooper’s in her article, What’s Causing This Pain?, published online at Health Central.

Determining the right treatment will depend on an accurate diagnosis by a medical doctor.

Many of the causes of rib pain can be treated with medication such as NSAID’s or steroid injections to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation or antibiotics to clear up bacterial infections.

In the case of kidney stones where the stones are too large to exit the body, surgery may be necessary.

Pain in the rib caused due to straining of the muscles between the ribs may be alleviated with chiropractic treatment such as myofascial stretches.

Eating healthier foods and avoiding fatty or spicy foods can help alleviate rib pain that is due to indigestion, heartburn, fecal impaction, and excessive gas.

Rib Pain Diagnosis

In deciding whether to treat and how to treat, your doctor will need to make a diagnosis to determine the cause of the rib pain.

Your doctor will do a physical examination and ask you questions about your medical history to find out whether an existing condition could be the cause of the pain.

You may be asked to indicate the area or areas of the body the pain is felt. Your doctor may also check for signs of inflammation or swelling which may be associated with conditions such as costochondritis.

An X-ray or MRI may be done to view the rib cage for fractures or broken ribs.

In cases where your doctor suspects the pain may be due to a heart problem, an electrocardiogram also known as an ECG or EKG may be done.

Blood tests and urine tests may help the doctor determine if you have gastritis, kidney problems, or pancreatitis.

The doctor may use an endoscope to examine the lining of your stomach if gastritis is suspected. A stool sample may also be taken and analyzed.

An X-ray, MRI or CT scan is also useful for examining internal organs and soft tissues in the body to check for inflammation or abnormalities that can cause rib pain.

Possible Complications of Rib Cage Pain

Medical complications may develop from rib pain that is poorly treated or left untreated.

This may be regardless of whether it is caused by injury, trauma, a disease or disorder.

According to an online article published at Health Grades, medical attention should be sought for persistent rib pain that occurs alone or accompanied by symptoms.

The article also stressed the importance of following the doctor’s treatment plan to reduce the risk of complications, especially those that are considered serious or life-threatening causes of rib pain.

These underlying causes include the following:

• Heart attack (cardiac arrest)
• Injury to the liver, spleen, kidneys or lungs
• Pneumonia
• Sepsis
• Abnormal heart rhythms (Cardiac Arrhythmias)
• Respiratory problems
• Acidosis and high carbon dioxide levels

Rib Pain Prevention

Preventing rib pain may not be an easy task since it can be caused by underlying conditions within the body.

In cases where improper diet or an unhealthy practice, such as lying down immediately after eating, may result in conditions that cause rib pain then a healthier diet and lifestyle can help prevent rib pain.

Indigestion, heartburn, excessive gas, and fecal impaction are some conditions that are related to an unhealthy diet or poor lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rib Pain

Does Rib Pain Mean Broken or Fractured Ribs?

A broken or fractured rib is one of the most common reasons for rib pain. The break or fracture may have occurred due to a direct blow to the chest, for example, due to a vehicular accident, fall, or rough contact during sport.

A person may not even know that the rib is broken or fractured. This type of rib pain can be severe, especially when moving.

Diagnosis of rib pain caused by broken or fractured ribs should be done urgently to avoid injury to the spleen or kidney.

How Do I Stop the Pain in My Ribs?

The best way to stop rib pain that does not go away by itself within a few minutes or hours is to find out what is causing the pain. Rib pain is due to various diseases, disorders, and conditions that can only be accurately diagnosed and treated by a doctor.

Therefore, the best way to stop rib pain is to seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially when symptoms are persistent and severe.

Is Pain Under the Left Rib Cage Serious?

Pain under the left rib cage has often been associated with a heart attack. People, especially older adults, who experience this pain may quickly panic.

But not all pain under the left rib cage is a sign of a heart attack. Problems with other organs housed under or below the left rib cage could be responsible for rib pain.

The cause and severity of the pain may be a guide to the seriousness of it. In addition to a heart attack, left rib pain is caused by angina, pancreatitis, respiratory infections, lung disease, costochondritis, kidney stones, rib injury, and spleen disease.

How Common is Pain in the Right Rib Cage?

Pain in the right rib cage is just as common as left rib pain. There is also a myth that left rib pain is more serious than when it occurs on the right because the heart is on the left side of the upper chest.

Left-sided rib pain is often associated with heart problems such as heart attack and angina.

On the other hand, right-sided pain may be due to serious conditions such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, gallstones, or inflammatory bowel diseases. This is according to Doctor’s Health Press.

Whether the pain occurs on the right or left or below the rib cage, it is not always a sure indication of its seriousness.

This is why all pain in the rib should be considered serious unless otherwise ruled out by a doctor.

When Should I See a Doctor?

Because rib pain can be caused by minor things such as indigestion or strained rib muscles or something more serious, such as a heart attack or pulmonary embolism, deciding when you should see a doctor is a judgment call to be made by the individual.

The most important thing to do is assess the symptoms and their level of severity.

If the pain does not go away, gets worse, or interferes with your daily activities or quality of life, this may indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.

A person should seek medical attention immediately in the following circumstances:

• If the pain or pressure in the ribs become severe
• If the pain radiates to other parts of the body, such as the shoulder, neck or jaw
• The pain quickly becomes severe
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitation
• Cold sweat or excessive sweating
• Changes in the color of the nail, lips, or skin
• Consistent coughing
• Difficulty moving
• Pain when bending or twisting the torso
• Pain accompanied by dizziness or nausea and vomiting
• Severe abdominal pain
• Mental confusion
• Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit

Conclusion

Rib pain should never be dismissed as something trivial, particularly because there are serious and potentially fatal conditions that cause rib pain both in the left and right side of the rib cage.

It may be better to err on the side of caution and seek urgent medical attention, especially for unexplained rib pain that is persistent and severe.

However, while chest pain should be taken seriously, it doesn’t always indicate a heart problem. Other causes include acid reflux, spasms of the esophagus, and, yes, even constipation.

Gas pain is often a symptom of constipation. While gas pains usually occur in the abdomen, they can be felt in the chest as well.

The straining that often accompanies difficult-to-pass bowel movements can also affect the muscles and nerves in the chest. So, yes, constipation can cause chest pain. Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between these two symptoms.

What is chest pain? 

The obvious answer is “pain that occurs in the chest,” but this pain may manifest in different ways in different people.

The pain can be sharp or aching, stabbing or burning, or may feel more like pressure. It can radiate out to other areas of the upper body, such as the back, the neck, and the upper abdomen.

When is chest pain an emergency? 

Before discussing the types and causes of chest pain, it is first important to recognize when chest pain should be considered an emergency.

Harvard Medical School recommends seeking immediate medical attention when you have severe chest pain that has been building in intensity for several minutes and you do not feel relief from the pain after resting.

Additionally, if you are also experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, or lightheadedness, your chest pain should be considered an emergency.

Non-emergent but clinically relevant chest pain – which indicates you should go visit your doctor, but not necessarily rush to the ER – is pain that recurs and lasts for multiple days. If you don’t know why you’re having this pain, it’s important to seek a diagnosis.

How common is chest pain? 

Chest pain is common in the United States, accounting for 6-8 million Americans a year visiting the emergency room, about 6% of all ER visits.

Somewhere between 50 and 70 percent of those people are admitted to the hospital for observation or treatment, making chest pain one of the most common reasons for hospitalization. Overall, nearly 8 billion dollars are spent per year on evaluating those patients’ chest pain.

Are there different kinds of chest pain? 

Doctors differentiate between two main types of chest pain: cardiac and non-cardiac. Cardiac chest pain is, as the name implies, related to problems with the heart and is also called angina.

On the other hand, non-cardiac chest pain may be caused by the lungs, gastrointestinal system, chest wall, or even certain psychological conditions.

According to a 2010 study by Dr. Kontos, Dr. Diercks, and Dr. Kirk, gastrointestinal problems are the most common cause of chest pain, accounting for about 42% of the chest pain suffered by their adult research subjects.

Coronary artery disease – a type of cardiac chest pain – was the second most common cause at 31%.

In turn, gastrointestinal chest pain may be a symptom of one of several conditions. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or acid reflux, causes a specific type of pain that is commonly known as heartburn.

Problems with the esophagus, such as spasms, rupture, or inflammation, can also cause chest pain. Indigestion, also called functional dyspepsia, can do the same.

How is constipation and acid reflux related? 

A common treatment for severe acid reflux is a class of medicines called protein pump inhibitors (PPIs), including such brand names as Nexium and Prilosec. One side effect of these medications is constipation.

If you are experiencing constipation after treating your heartburn chest pain with a PPI, you can speak with your doctor and try some of the lifestyle changes discussed below to help alleviate constipation.

It’s also possible that bowel obstructions can increase the pressure within the entire gastrointestinal system, forcing even more stomach acid up into the esophagus in people who are already prone to experiencing heartburn. In this case, constipation can make existing chest pain worse.

How does my doctor determine what is causing my chest pain? 

If the pain is not immediately life-threatening, doctors will often begin by taking a chest pain patient’s history to determine if he or she has risk factors that may point toward serious heart problems.

The doctor will then perform a physical examination to first rule out the most dangerous causes of the pain.

The doctor may then order additional tests, including an electrocardiogram to show the electrical activity within the heart, and different types of scans, such as a chest x-ray or CT scan. Certain blood tests can also be helpful for determining the cause of chest pain.

Is non-cardiac chest pain always benign? 

Once a heart attack or other cardiac cause is ruled out, it is tempting to think that other causes are not so serious.

However, chest pain can also be a symptom of a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) or pneumothorax (air leaking from the lungs into the chest). These are acute, life-threatening conditions that need to be treated immediately.

Other times, long-lasting non-cardiac chest pain can be a symptom of a more chronic condition such as tuberculosis, pancreatitis, or shingles.

While not all chest pain is a sign of an emergency or a serious condition, it is important to consult a doctor who can provide a solid diagnosis.

What is constipation? 

Constipation is the condition of having rare, difficult to pass, or incomplete bowel movements. This is commonly accompanied by abdominal pain and a feeling of bloating.

While constipation is not a disease in itself, it can be a symptom of a larger disease or the result of diet or medication side effects.

How common is constipation? 

Constipation is extremely common, and up to 30% of adults will experience it at some point in their lives.

It is especially common in elderly adults, who are at higher risk due to decreased physical activity, insufficient fiber intake, and increased medication use.

It is also common in children as they make dietary transitions, such as from milk or formula to solid food.

What causes constipation? 

Primary constipation is the most common kind and is caused by dietary and behavioral choices.

On the dietary side, drinking too little water or eating too little fiber makes stools more difficult to pass. In addition, lack of exercise slows down digestion, making constipation more likely.

Secondary constipation occurs when there is a known cause in the form of a disease, medical condition, or medication side effect.

Constipation can be a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, and hypothyroidism, just to name a few. A number of medications – most notable opiates, in recent years – also have constipation as a side effect.

What is irritable bowel syndrome? 

When constipation is chronic – that is, it happens at least three days a month for at least three months – and no other cause can be determined, doctors often make a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Though the causes of IBS still aren’t entirely clear, it’s not an uncommon condition, affecting 10-15% of the population in first-world countries. When constipation is the primary symptom, the condition is known as IBS-C.

There is currently no cure for IBS-C, though the symptoms – including constipation – are treatable. Doctors may advise dietary changes, increasing fiber and avoiding foods that are hard to digest. IBS-C is not life-threatening, and unlike other causes of constipation, it does not appear to get worse with age.

It’s important to note that the presence of abdominal pain helps to diagnose constipation that is a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, so if you’re already experiencing chronic constipation, be sure to let your doctor know if you’re experiencing chest pain, as well.

How does constipation cause chest pain? 

People who experience constipation may also experience gas pain. It is normal to pass gas during the process of digestion – up to 20 times a day, as reported by the Mayo Clinic.

However, if there is a blockage in the lower gastrointestinal tract, as happens with constipation, the gas may become trapped and cause pain or a cramping sensation as it presses against the walls of the intestines.

Typically, these gas pains occur in the abdomen, where the intestines are located. However, there are a number of anecdotal reports of gas pain radiating up into the lower chest.

The abdomen and the chest share many of the same nerves, and pain can travel along the length of those nerves.

As stated above when discussing acid reflux, the straining caused by constipation can aggravate heartburn.

There is also some evidence that excessive straining can overwork the chest muscles or pinch nerves in the thoracic spine.

All of these scenarios can result in different types of chest pain.

How do I know if constipation is causing my chest pain? 

Because constipation-related chest pain is caused by gas, paying attention to what you eat can give you a clue.

Gas is produced when bacteria in the large intestine break down certain types of carbohydrates, including fiber and starch. Beans and peas, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all known to cause gas due to their high fiber content.

If you know which foods are likely to give you gas, pay attention to when you eat versus when you experience abdominal or chest pain.

Consider keeping a food diary and also noting down the time, duration, and severity of your pain. Look for patterns that might illuminate the cause of that pain.

Since the pain that comes with gas is temporary, constipation-related chest pain should be temporary, as well.

However, if you want to be sure that your chest pain is a result of constipation and not a more serious condition, consult your doctor.

This is especially important if your chest pain is frequent or severe and does not appear to be related to what you eat.

What treatments are best for constipation-related chest pain? 

If your chest pain truly is being caused by constipation, treatments that relieve constipation should also relieve your pain.

The first line of recommended treatments is a simple increase in physical exercise, as well as in the water and fiber that you ingest.

This may seem counterintuitive since fiber-containing foods cause more gas, but fiber helps to bulk up and soften stools, making them easier to pass.

If you have secondary constipation that is a symptom of another medical condition or a side effect of medication, particularly opioids, increased fiber intake might not be effective. In these cases, you’ll want to talk to your doctor about treatment.

While it may be tempting to immediately take a laxative for quick relief, the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that such medications should only be used after non-pharmacologic treatments – such as water, fiber, and exercise – have already been tried.

A patient who overuses laxatives, particularly the stimulant kind, puts his or her digestive system at risk for becoming dependent on them to pass any bowel movements.

Are there particular exercises that are good for relieving constipation? 

While doctors recommend all kinds of regular physical exercise for preventing and relieving constipation, there is anecdotal evidence that yoga and massage can specifically target the digestive system.

If you’re feeling constipated, check out this video from Sitting Solution that demonstrates some natural movements that can help stimulate your digestion.

Is constipation related to heart disease?

A 2016 study showed that older adults, aged 40-79, who experienced constipation were also more likely to die from heart disease.

While constipation itself does not cause heart disease, Dr. Adolph Hutter with Harvard Medical School points out that patients who strain to produce a bowel movement put stress on their cardiovascular system.

Think of treating your constipation as a way to take care of your heart. If this worries you, take the time to discuss your concerns with your doctor, particularly if you’re experiencing chest pain along with your constipation. Your doctor can help determine whether it’s cardiac or non-cardiac pain.

What should I do if I suspect that my chest pain is related to constipation?

As long as your chest pain doesn’t fit the criteria for an emergency (increasing in severity over the span of a few minutes, not relieved by resting), a good first step might be to increase your water and fiber intake.

For maximum effect, you should add physical exercise to your daily routine, if you haven’t already. If this is ineffective at relieving your constipation, you might try a gentle over-the-counter laxative.

Be sure to use your common sense. If your chest pain is constantly present or gets worse, or if diet and behavior changes don’t help with your constipation, go see your doctor.

Tell your doctor about all the symptoms you’re experiencing – constipation and chest pain included – and he or she will find the right treatment for you.

Eating too many acidic foods or needing a good fart is often the reason you feel pain under the left rib cage, but not always.

Pain under the left rib cage could be due to a minor condition, such as stomach gas, or something serious or life-threatening, such as angina or a heart attack. For these reasons, you should never ignore pain under the left rib cage.

This type of pain can sometimes be excruciating and unbearable, especially if it occurs frequently.

It can be a sharp or dull pain that is fleeting or persists for hours, days, weeks, or months.

The pain may be felt suddenly without explanation and even go away on its own.

It is not always easy to pinpoint where the pain originates from and why. But considering your left rib cage houses and protects some vital organs in the body, pain in this part of the body should always be taken seriously.

Understanding the types of left rib cage pain, their causes, and symptoms can help you decide when to speak with your doctor or seek urgent medical attention.

Some people prefer to seek medical care only after the pain becomes chronic or unbearable.

However, according to All Health Post You May Have a Serious Health Condition, you should seek medical attention as early as possible, regardless of the level of severity of the pain.

Common Causes of Pain Under Left of Rib Cage

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs with 12 on each side. It is jointed to the breastbone or sternum in front by a strip of cartilage and to the back by the spine.

The left side of the rib cage covers and protects the heart, left lung, left kidney, stomach, spleen, pancreas, adrenal gland, and left ureter.

Left rib cage pain commonly occurs for various reasons. In general, it may be due to issues with the bones, joints or soft tissues such as the ligaments or cartilage, or an underlying medical condition.

According to Healthline, injury, infection or inflammation may be the underlying cause of that pain you feel in the left rib cage.

More specifically, these are some common causes of this discomforting pain:

• Heart attack
• Angina Pectoris
• Fractured or broken rib
• Stomach ulcers or gastritis
• Acid reflux
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Pregnancy
• Digestive disorders
• Costochondritis
• Pericarditis
• Kidney stones
• Pancreatitis
• Pleurisy
• Enlarged or ruptured spleen
• Splenic Flexure Syndrome
• Lung problems (e.g., pneumonia or tuberculosis)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)

Different Types of Pain Under Left Rib Cage 

The type of pain you feel under the left rib cage may differ depending on the cause or the part of the body it originates from. It can also be confused with the pain felt in the left chest or under the left breast.

The pain could start in the chest or abdomen and spread upwards to the shoulder, neck, and to the left side of the rib cage.

It could be a sharp, stabbing pain or a mild, dull and aching. The pain may occur suddenly and go away or come on gradually and become constant and chronic.

Rib pain may get worse when you move, cough or sneeze. You may also experience the following types of pain under the left rib cage associated with a condition or certain activity:

Pain Under Left Rib Cage After Eating? 

Gastritis, indigestion, heartburn or acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or a severe allergic reaction are common culprits causing this type of pain.

According to Doctor’s Health Press, these gastrointestinal problems are more likely to become aggravated after eating or eating a heavy meal.

The pain may be mild or chronic and accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating in the upper abdomen, or a backflow of stomach acid depending on which of these conditions triggered the pain.

Eating smaller portions of food and eliminating certain foods from your diet can help reduce left rib pain associated with these gastrointestinal conditions.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage When Breathing 

Pain that is felt while breathing could indicate respiratory issues occurring in the lung, such as in patients with pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Difficulty or pain while breathing for these patients is often due to infection, inflammation or fluid retention in the lungs.

In addition, a fractured or broken rib, pulled intercostal muscles, chronic pericarditis, and costochondritis are among other medical problems that result in pain when breathing.

Patients with costochondritis often feel a sharp or dull pain during exertion or deep breathing.

In patients with chronic pericarditis, pain during breathing may be due inflammation and swelling of the pericardium, a saclike membrane surrounding the heart. This is according to the Mayo Clinic.

Sharp Pain Left Side Under Ribs Comes and Goes 

A common cause of sharp pain under the left rib that comes and goes is a bruised, broken or fractured rib. You may not have even realized the injury occurred.

The sharp, often stabbing, pain is typically felt suddenly, especially when you move, bend, breathe.

In other cases, an enlarged or ruptured spleen may result in sharp pain on the left side of the rib cage. The spleen is situated below the left rib cage.

An enlarged spleen is commonly caused by infection, inflammation, trauma or blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia. Pain caused by these conditions can spread to the rib cage.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage and Back Pain 

Pain under the left rib cage is sometimes accompanied by back pain which can be felt in the lower, upper, or middle back. When the pain is caused by pancreatitis or an enlarged spleen, it can spread to the back.

According to Healthy and Natural World, left rib cage pain can also originate from pulled, strained, or torn back muscles as a result of being overweight or lifting heavy objects.

Rib injury, a herniated disk, nerve pain from spinal cord injury, and degenerative diseases, such as osteoarthritis, may also be responsible for pain under the left rib cage and back.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage During Pregnancy

According to Being The Parent, it is common for women to experience soreness or pain in the ribs. It occurs mostly during the third trimester due to a growing fetus.

The pain is more likely felt under the left breast near the left rib cage when the baby is camping on the left side.

Another cause of rib pain during pregnancy is an increase in breast size, with the left breast placing additional pressure on the left rib cage.

This type of pain has also been associated with pressure on the diaphragm when organs in the body shift to accommodate a moving baby.

When the baby is in a breached position, extra pressure is placed on the rib cage and can result in a piercing pain on the left side.

Stabbing Pain Under Left Rib Cage After Colonoscopy 

According to Health Hearty, pain under the left rib cage is a common complaint about patients after colonoscopy.

This procedure involves the use of a tube and a camera to examine the colon in patients with suspected colon problems, e.g., polyps or ulcerative colitis.

Some patients may feel the pain immediately after the procedure. The pain is often attributed to the crouching posture the patient is placed in during the examination.

Air introduced into the body is another possible cause of the pain or discomfort felt, similarly to the way stomach gas causes pain in the left rib.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage After Running 

If you experience an annoying or discomforting pain during or after running it could be because of several things. They include side stitches, lack of oxygen, spinal stress, and poor hydration according to Every First Step.

It further explains that pain associated with running occurs mainly because of pressure on the ligaments between the diaphragm and stomach during the up and down movements.

Dehydration and lack of oxygen during exertion while running also places stress on the heart and lungs, resulting in pain felt in the left rib cage.

Some people may even experience cramping and squeezing in the upper left chest near to the rib cage due to poor blood circulation.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage During Bowel Movement 

Bloating, abdominal cramps and pressure on the colon due to constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, or bowel obstruction may cause pain under the left rib cage during the bowel movement. This is according to Prime Health Channel.

It is often difficult for patients with these conditions to move the bowel. Straining and pushing to pass stool often places additional pressure on the colon causing pain that can radiate to the rib cage.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage Front and Back 

Pain under the left rib cage felt in the front and back may be due to several health issues, including problems with the left kidney or rib injury.

A broken or fractured is more likely to cause frontal rib cage pain, especially when you move.

The left kidney is the main organ located in the upper abdominal area against the back muscles. It is responsible for removing toxins from the body and balancing fluid levels.

Pain may be felt if the kidney becomes infected, inflamed or diseased, and can also radiate to the front or back of the rib cage.

According to Doctor’s Health Press, kidney stones can also cause a sharp pain under either the right or left rib cage. The pain ignites when the stone gets stuck in the urinary passage.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage from Gas 

The splenic flexure is a bend located in the upper abdomen near the spleen. According to Health Foxx, Splenic flexure syndrome, a chronic digestive disorder which causes excess gas to become trapped in the colon, can result in pain under the left rib cage.

People who suffer from the condition experience bloating, sharp abdominal cramps or spasms, and excessive flatulence.

This build-up of gas occurs mainly from eating gas-forming foods that in turn prevent proper digestion.

Symptoms of splenic flexure syndrome include chest pain thought to radiate to the left rib.

Irritable bowel syndrome is also responsible for pain in the left rib in a similar manner due to abdominal pain and excess gas.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage Feels Like Cramp 

Muscle cramps or spasms are involuntary contractions that can occur on the left side of the rib cage and cause pain.

It may make you panic since it mimics symptoms of a heart attack such as pain, squeezing, or pressure in the chest.

It may be a dull aching or sharp shooting pain. Muscle cramps may occur for various reasons.

Among them are tension or stiffness in the intercostal muscles or muscles that run between the rib cage.

Lack of oxygen or poor hydration from running or strenuous exercise are also among the reasons.

People involved in strenuous sports are more prone to experiencing cramping pain under the left rib.

It further states that other causes of rib pain that feel like cramps are costochondritis, splenic flexure syndrome, fibromyalgia, medication, and stimulants such as caffeine.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage Feels Like Pulled Muscle 

The intercostal muscles are a group of muscles located between the ribs. They play a vital role in breathing and controlling chest movement.

According to Medial News Today, pain can occur under the left rib cage if these muscles get pulled, strained, or twisted due to overexertion or injury.

Starting exercise or lifting weight suddenly without stretching or warming up, or playing sports and lifting objects with poor posture can result in pulled muscle causing left rib pain. Intercostal neuritis may also be causing rib pain.

The pain is, sometimes, accompanied by upper back pain and may worsen when you move, sneeze, cough or take deep breaths.

In this YouTube Video, Dr. Allan Mandell explains that intercostal neuritis can cause pain in the chest or rib when taking deep breaths and can be confused with a heart attack or issues with other organs.

Pain Under Left Rib Cage Feels Bruised

Bruised ribs can cause pain that is felt under the left rib cage. The bruising may be due to several conditions.

They include persistent coughing resulting from lung problems, e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis, pleurisy, whooping cough or another type of respiratory infection.

Pain due to bruised ribs can be accompanied with symptoms such as muscle spasms of the rib cage or pain that radiate to the shoulders.

You may even develop a fever if the bruising is caused by infection and inflammation of rib cartilage as a result of an underlying condition, such as costochondritis.

How to Diagnose Pain Under the Left Rib Cage 

Since pain in the left rib cage can be caused by a plethora of reasons, it may not be easy to diagnose the cause on your own. You should see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Your doctor will most likely do a physical examination and ask certain questions to determine the reason.

You may be asked questions, including when the pain started, what you were doing when it began, how long it persisted, what other symptoms you have, and whether you have any pre-existing medical condition.

If your doctor is unable to pinpoint a cause, further investigations may be required.

This could involve lab tests performed on the urine, blood or stool to look for infection, inflammation or signs of a disease.

An X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be done to examine the organs, bones, joints, and soft tissues in the body for any signs of abnormality. In some cases, a skin or tissue biopsy or endoscopy may be performed.

Treatment for Pain Under Left Rib Cage

There are several treatment options available for treating pain under the left rib cage. Treatment is also not a one-size-fits-all.

The type of treatment recommended by your doctor usually depends on factors such as the underlying cause or the severity of the pain.

After your doctor makes a diagnosis, the following may be used to treat and alleviate rib pain:

Medication

Medication is typically the first-line treatment for pain especially due to musculoskeletal pain such as spasms or bruising.

Your doctor may prescribe painkillers, or antacids or gas pills in cases where the pain is due to stomach gas or abdominal bloating.

It may be necessary to treat you with antibiotics to reduce inflammation if the pain stems from an infection.

Non-Steroidal Medications (NSAID’s), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA), or steroid injections are other treatments used for patients experiencing pain under the left rib cage.

Medication may be used in combination with home care or natural remedies to further alleviate the pain.

Surgery

In addition to painkillers to temporarily ease the pain, surgery may be necessary for some patients. This could be a last resort since many causes of rib pain do not require surgical treatment.

Instances in which surgery is needed include where the pain is related to a serious heart condition, a broken rib needs to be repaired, or an organ such as the lung or pancreas is damaged, e.g., due to trauma.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Rest, self-care, and avoiding activities that trigger the pain are some lifestyle changes that may help reduce left rib cage pain or prevent it from coming back.

Eating healthy foods and avoiding oily, fatty, and acidic foods which trigger symptoms of acid reflux or indigestion may be good ways to keep rib pain in check.   

Natural Remedies

Some people may turn to natural methods to treat pain under the left rib cage. A hot or cold compress may be used to relieve soreness or tension in the muscles where the pain is due to bruising or cramping.

According to Health Spectra, certain foods or herbs may help reduce pain and inflammation. They include dry ginger, mustard oil, garlic, turmeric milk, and egg yolk and asafoetida paste.

When to Seek Medical Help

In all cases, pain under the left rib cage should ever be ignored, particularly when it is intense, worsens, or persists beyond an hour.

When pain is caused by mere stomach gas or heartburn, you may try to relieve it using home remedies, e.g., garlic tea or antacids.

But because this type of pain can be a sign of a serious or life-threatening condition, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible or immediately if any of the following symptoms occur:

• Pain in the left side chest that radiates to your arm, back, or jaw
• Heart palpitations or trouble breathing
• Sudden increase or decrease in blood pressure
• Fever or chills
• Coughing
• Sudden sharp or unexplained pain under your left rib cage.
• Nausea, vomiting or dizziness

Conclusion

Left rib cage pain can be frightening for some people since it is often associated with a heart attack.

Others may dismiss it as ‘nothing’ or something ‘trivial’ and ignore it, particularly if the pain is dull and inconsistent.

Though there are various causes and types of pain under the left rib cage, some of which are not due to serious problems, all rib pain should be investigated to rule out any potentially fatal conditions, especially a heart attack.

The most important idea to take away is regardless whether left rib pain starts after eating, running, or deep breathing, and even if it is dull and fleeting, the best action to take is to consult your doctor.

There’s no doubt about it: Chest pain can be frightening. The good news is it’s not always a sign of something serious.

A heart attack is a worst-case scenario, but chest pain or tightness can be something simple like acid reflux or nerve pain.

While chest pain should always be taken seriously, it doesn’t even necessarily involve the heart at all. Up to 25% of cases of chest pain are caused by a non-cardiac issue.

Here are some of the most common causes of chest pain and whether or not you need to take action.

#1. COPD Is a Common Cause of Chest Pain

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a form of lung disease that worsens over time. COPD can come with a persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and chest pain.

If you struggle to breathe and get winded easily, especially while active, your chest pain may be the result of lung disease — not a cardiac issue.

Dietary changes, quitting smoking, and medication can all ease the chest tightness and pain of COPD.

#2. Chest Tightness Is a Common Asthma Symptom

If you have asthma, you may experience a range of symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness, which may feel like a heavy weight on your chest, tightness, or actual pain. During an asthma attack, it can be difficult to breathe as the airways close.

You may have asthma without even realizing it. Asthma can develop at any time, and it doesn’t always come with the hallmark symptoms.

One ER survey found that 76% of people with asthma experience chest pain. A recent study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that chest pain or tightness can be the only symptom of asthma for some people.

#3. Sharp Chest Pain Is a Primary Sign of Pleurisy

Pleurisy refers to inflammation of the membranes covering the lungs. This condition, often caused by a viral infection, can cause very sharp or stabbing chest pain that gets worse when you move, cough, sneeze, or breathe deeply.

Most cases of pleurisy are caused by a viral infection but it can also be caused by pneumonia and autoimmune disorders.

Pleurisy can be diagnosed by removing some fluid from the pleura of your lungs. Once diagnosed, pleurisy should be treated with NSAIDs, prescription pain medication, and sometimes antibiotics.

#4. GERD Is the Most Common Digestive Cause of Chest Pain

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a chronic condition of the digestive system that happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can irritate and damage the lining of the esophagus.

Chest pain from GERD can mimic the pain of angina pectoris. You may feel a burning or squeezing sensation in your just behind the sternum that may radiate to the arms, jaw, back, or neck.

You may feel severe pain in your chest when you a cough or breathe deeply, but the pain will probably feel close to the surface of the skin rather than deep in the chest. Taking antacids usually relieves the pain.

#5. Several Musculoskeletal Issues Cause Chest Pain

A large share of chest pain is the result of an underlying musculoskeletal problem. Up to 25% of patients seen in an ER and over one-third of people in non-emergency clinics who report chest pain have noncardiac or atypical pain, according to a major study on chest wall pain and musculoskeletal syndromes.

This type of chest pain is sometimes caused by rheumatic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and fibromyalgia.

People with fibromyalgia, in particular, can develop a condition called costochondritis, which causes pain and tenderness around the rib cage and breastbone. Up to 70% of people with fibromyalgia experience costochondritis chest pain, according to Very Well Health.

#6. Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks Can Cause Chest Tightness

Panic disorder is a common type of anxiety disorder that leads to recurring and usually unexpected panic attacks. This disorder can develop at any time.

If you have never been diagnosed with panic disorder, the onset of a panic attack can feel very much like a heart attack with shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, numbness, and chest pain. It’s believed that up to 25% of people who see a doctor for chest pain have panic disorder.

#7. Pulmonary Hypertension Can Cause Chest Tightness and Fainting

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which the pressure in the arteries that serve the lungs is too high, putting pressure on the walls of the arteries.

When pulmonary hypertension first develops, you will probably notice shortness of breath when you are active.

Eventually, the disease will worsen and make you feel tired all the time. It can also cause swelling of the legs, fainting, a rapid heartbeat, and a pressure or tightness in the chest.

#8. Myocarditis May Cause Mild Chest Pain and Swelling

Myocarditis is inflammation of the muscles of the heart, usually due to a viral infection. This condition can cause chest pain, but it’s usually mild or pressure in the chest. Myocarditis can also cause swelling in your legs, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath.

Myocarditis does not involve any blockages in the blood vessels, but the symptoms can resemble a heart attack.

#9. Hyperthyroidism Can Affect Your Heart and Cause Chest Tightness

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and makes too much thyroid hormone.

This speeds up most systems in the body and may cause difficulty sleeping, feeling too hot, fast heart rate, heart palpitations, nervousness, and weight loss.

When it isn’t treated, hyperthyroidism can cause several problems like high blood pressure and even heart failure because the high hormone level forces the heart to beat faster and harder.

It can also cause chest pain because faster and more forceful pumping requires more oxygen. When someone with hyperthyroidism also has a clogged coronary artery, angina is likely to follow, according to Harvard Medical Center.

#10. Cardiomyopathy Can Cause Pain After Exercise or Eating

If you notice moderate chest pain that gets worse after a heavy meal or exercise, it may be caused by cardiomyopathy.

This is a broad term that refers to several diseases of the heart muscle that can make the muscle thicker, thinner, or interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood.

Cardiomyopathy can cause swelling in the legs, heart palpitations, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath that gets worse when you’re active, and sometimes chest pain.

#11. Angina Can Be Mistaken for a Heart Attack

Angina is a specific type of chest pain that happens when blood is flowing to the heart but the rate is reduced. About 9 million Americans have chronic angina, which causes pain in the chest that feels like pressure or that your heart is actually being squeezed, according to a study published by the American College of Cardiology.

Angina can be mistaken for a heart attack, but it doesn’t cause permanent damage to the heart. There are two types of angina: unstable angina which can happen at any time and stable angina, which happens when your heart pumps harder such as during exercise.

One of the most common causes of angina is coronary artery disease (CAD). This cardiac disease is caused by a blockage in blood vessels that reduce the rate of blood flow and how much oxygen reaches the heart muscles.

#12. A Heart Attack Is the Most Serious Cause of Chest Pain

Sometimes the cause of your chest pain is what you fear: a heart attack. When the pain is caused by a heart attack, it may feel like tightness, pressure, or sharp, stabbing pain. Heart attacks are caused by a blockage in an artery supplying oxygenated blood to the heart.

A heart attack can also come with other symptoms: 

• Nausea
• Fast pulse
• Sense of choking
• Severe weakness
• Cold sweat
• Shortness of breath
• Lightheadedness
• Numbness in one hand or arm

It’s very important to understand that the signs of a heart attack can be different for women than men. This video goes over common heart attack symptoms, including those women tend to experience that may not be obvious signs of cardiac problems.

If you have symptoms of a heart attack, consider it a medical emergency and seek medical attention right away.

What Else Can Cause Chest Pain?

There are many other issues that can lead to chest pain, although you should know that in many cases, the cause of the pain is unknown.

• #13. Pulled muscle in the chest wall
• #14. Pneumonia
• #15. Aortic dissection or a tear in the inner lining of the aorta
• #16. Stress cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome
• #17. Pulmonary embolism or a blockage in the pulmonary artery in the lung
• #18. Pneumothorax or a build-up of air in the pleural sac between the lungs and the chest wall
• #19. Substance-related chest pain caused by cocaine or another drug
• #20. Shingles which affects 1 out of 3 people at some point
• #21. Gallstones
• #22. Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas
• #23. Injury to a rib
• #24. Ulcer
• #25. Lung cancer