Brief Answer:
Considerations

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for sending the question.

I understand that you have been diagnosed with costochondritis recently. This can be a very uncomfortable condition. Generally, costochondritis presents with a situation of tenderness or sensitivity along the ribs or sternum. It can sometimes be confused with cardiac chest pain.

I assume that you have been evaluated by a primary physician or urgent care or emergency room physician who has advised that you most likely have costochondritis. If this is the diagnosis it is generally treated with supportive measures (rest, alternate hot-cold pack application) and anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen.

If you are still having significant symptoms despite the use of recommended medications I would recommend you contact your primary care physician for a follow-up discussion and for a possible repeat physical examination if your symptoms remain severe.

Sometimes a warm compress or a warm soak in a hot tub or bathtub may be helpful. It may take some time for the inflammation to improve but again, I think it is important that you inform your primary physician about the severity of symptoms especially if it's persistent despite treatment...

Thank you again for sending your question. let me know if I can assist you further.

Sincerely,

Dr. Galamaga

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