OpenHealth Q&A

Could This Be Costochondritis or Something Different?

As a 19-year-old woman, I’ve never really faced any significant health issues until recently, which has escalated my anxiety about my well-being. Approximately a month ago, around early July, I began experiencing unusual discomfort in my chest that also radiated to my back, especially between my shoulder blades. Initially, it was just a tingling sensation in that area, which quickly progressed to a more pronounced ache. Though my breathing remained unaffected, the discomfort was unsettling and frightening. After a while of grappling with the discomfort, I decided to visit the emergency department. There, the ECG and tests related to heart function returned normal results. My pulse and blood pressure were also stable. According to the doctor, the issue was likely due to irritation or strain of the chest wall, and I received a diagnosis of GERD. After starting on pantoprazole, the discomfort subsided a few days later. This was a new experience for me, as this feeling seemed to arise out of nowhere. Subsequently, I encountered muscle tightness in my neck and a sensation akin to a lump in my throat, which eventually diminished, but the tightness lingered for a little longer. Given my history of TMJ, I didn’t pay too much attention to it, even though it still raised some concerns. More recently, the discomfort in my chest and back resurfaced after a brief absence of about a week. It presents as a dull ache that flares up when I engage in activities like twisting, leaning forward, coughing, laughing, or taking a deep breath—much like before. Additionally, I’ve been experiencing rib pain, a bubbly feeling in my torso and rib area, and an occasional sensation of shakiness. There have been sporadic aches around both my breasts as well. It’s worth mentioning that applying pressure to the affected areas doesn't seem to invoke pain. Given my previous ECG and heart-related blood work were all clear just a month ago, it leads me to believe it’s not heart-related. I have been taking FeraMax iron supplements every night, but I can’t see how they might be connected to the re-emergence of my symptoms. Has anyone else experienced similar symptoms that fluctuate? Is it possible that this is costochondritis despite also affecting my back? Or does it not align with typical costochondritis symptoms? I should also mention that I haven’t been straining myself more than usual. My posture has typically not been great, but it hasn’t changed significantly, which leaves me puzzled as to why this discomfort presented so suddenly without any alterations in my daily routine. Why did this not occur earlier when my posture has remained consistent throughout my life? 😔

Answers (1)

8/8/2025, 12:31:19 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're dealing with a complex set of symptoms and understandably feeling anxious about your health. Based on what you’ve shared, it’s possible that your discomfort could be related to costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone. This condition can indeed cause chest and back pain, especially with certain movements or activities.

Key Points:

• Your previous tests ruled out heart problems, which is important for giving you some reassurance.
• The symptoms you're experiencing, like the chest and back pain that worsens with movement, align with those seen in costochondritis.
• It's also possible that muscle strain, poor posture, or even anxiety could be factors contributing to your discomfort.

Explanation:

Costochondritis typically presents as localized chest pain that may intensify with specific movements, deep breaths, or physical activity. It usually does not cause pain when pressure is applied to the area—this aligns with your experience. Your history of TMJ could also contribute to muscular tension in your neck, which might exacerbate discomfort.

Next Steps:

1. Activity Modifications: Pay attention to your posture, especially when sitting or using electronic devices. Consider gentle stretches for your neck and upper back, which may help alleviate some tightness.

2. Pain Management: If you find the pain or discomfort persists, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce inflammation and provide relief, but make sure to follow the dosage instructions.

3. Breathing Exercises: To help with any anxiety and improve your chest discomfort, practice deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help manage stress and may ease discomfort.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when the pain occurs and what activities seem to exacerbate it. This can help you identify patterns or triggers.

5. Consult Healthcare Provider If: You notice any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, changes in breathing, or any symptoms accompanying dizziness or fatigue, it’s important to seek further evaluation.

Each body is different, and it’s essential to listen to what yours is telling you. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more personalized support or if your anxiety and symptoms worsen. You're not alone in this, and managing your discomfort step-by-step can help regain your peace of mind.