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Costochondritis/Tietze Syndrome and Intercostal Neuralgia

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nakiya80890
nakiya80890

What does Costochondritis and Tietze Syndrome have in common? They are both inflammations of the cartilage in the rib cage. Tietze syndrome involves swelling of the breastbone, and Costochondritis does not. However, they are essentially the same thing with the exception of the swelling of the breastbone in Tietze Syndrome.

What causes Costochondritis/Tietze Syndrome? Virus (e.g. Shingles), Bacteria Infection (e.g. syphilis) Straining from coughing, Fungal (rare cause), Trauma to the chest, Physical strain from physical activities, Respiratory conditions (pulmonary syphilis), Rheumatic diseases (e.g. arthritis), Tumors, Breast implant surgery, Pregnancy, etc.

What are the symptoms of Costochondritis/Tietze Syndrome? Pain and tenderness on the breastbone, pain in more than one rib, or pain that gets worse with deep breaths or coughing. Typically, it is sharp and stabbing in nature and can be quite severe. The pain is worse with movement, exertion, and deep breathing.

What is Intercostal Neuralgia? Intercostal neuralgia refers to a neuropathic condition involving the intercostal nerves, manifesting as intense dysesthetic pain, e.g., sharp, shooting, or burning in quality. The pain is constant and burning in nature and May involve any of the intercostal nerves and the subcostal nerve of the 12th rib. 

What causes Intercostal Neuralgia? Intercostal Neuralgia occurs due to a number of reasons such as nerve entrapment, a traumatic or iatrogenic neuroma, persistent nerve irritation, or herpes zoster. The pain of intercostal neuralgia is the result of damage or inflammation of the intercostal nerves and can be localized one or more of the intercostal space. 

What are the symptoms of Intercostal Neuralgia?  Intercostal neuralgia is a painful disorder characterized by intense, sharp, and shooting or burning pain. It shares many features with neuropathic pain and is usually located at the distribution of an intercostal nerve.

Want more information, check out my support group: "Living with Costochondritis, Tietze Syndrome, and Intercostal Neuralgia." The goal of this group is to provide support and resources to those who are suffering from these debilitating conditions. Link to group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/825234121019880 

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