What is costochondritis?
A person with costochondritis has inflammation of the area of the chest where the ribs meet the breastbone. Causes of costochondritis include chest injury, chronic coughing, and strenuous exercise.

What are the symptoms of costochondritis?
Symptoms of costochondritis include chest pain that may worsen with deep breathing or movement of the chest wall. Other symptoms include chest wall tenderness, cough, and difficulty breathing.

How does the doctor treat costochondritis?
Treatment for costochondritis may include rest, cold or warm compresses, narcotic pain medications, and acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain.