Costochondritis

Hi everyone..i was finally diagnosed with costochondritis after suffering for over a year with horrible pain in my chest and left shoulder and left arm and even in my back. I went to the ER 2 days ago thinking i was having a heart attack, i couldnt breath and i could barely walk. I dont really understand this condition. I already have severe anxiety and this seems to make that so much worse. I cant seem to stop the pain no matter what i do. The Dr. gave me 800 mg Ibuprofen to take every day but it isnt helping. I am a busy Mom with 4 children and it is so hard to get through each day now i am praying the pain will stop. If anyone can help i would really appreciate it. Thanks

Hi Aray, I had costochondritis after a bout of pneumonia, it was horrendous, they gave me some good pain killers stronger than ibuprofen!
The thing that helped me was injections of cortisone directly into the hot spots, I had about 5 and it really made a difference. Also there are some really good posts on the fibromyalgia forum about this. Just search for old posts, I learnt alot there at that time.
My heart goes out to you its so painful, so hard to breath, I remember having to hold a pillow to myself so I could cough, it was agonising trying to cough up the rubbish from the pneumonia. I was a complete mess, had to sleep sitting up.
I wish you luck, but I'd definately be searching for more help, golitho

Hello Aray and welcome!

Last month I had a viral infection and was severely dehydrated. I ended up in the ER because I was having chest pains. The doctor told me it was costochondritis. They ended up giving pain meds to me by IV. I understand your concern. This was a totally new experience and one I don't hope to repeat.

Take care!