Costochondritis

Overview

Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. The pain can sometimes mimic that of a heart attack. The cause is unknown.

Symptoms

Costochondritis pain usually happens on the breastbone's left side and affects more than one rib. Symptoms get worse with deep breaths or coughing.

Treatments

Treatments may include pain-relieving medications, stretching exercises or steroid injections into the painful joint.