By Liv Tyree
Pain in the chest is always alarming, especially when it feels sharp or worsens with movement. In Thailand, where people often live active lifestyles and may not seek medical care until symptoms become disruptive, it’s easy to overlook the more unusual causes of chest pain. One condition that sometimes goes undiagnosed is infectious costochondritis, a rare form of inflammation that occurs when the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone becomes infected.
This condition differs from the more common, non-infectious form of costochondritis, which is usually caused by strain or injury. When bacteria or, in rare cases, fungi invade the cartilage, it leads to infection and swelling. The pain can mimic a heart attack or lung issue, which makes diagnosis challenging. Infections like these may develop after surgery, injury, or even from bacteria spreading through the bloodstream.
How the Infection Develops
Infectious costochondritis can occur after chest trauma, open-heart surgery, or procedures involving chest drains or catheters. Even a skin infection near the chest area, if left untreated, could potentially lead to deeper infection. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or recovering from surgery, may also be more vulnerable.
Unlike muscle strain, this pain doesn’t go away with rest or gentle movement. It tends to stay in one area and may feel warm or tender to the touch. Swelling or redness over the ribs can also appear. If fever or chills develop at the same time, it’s a strong sign that infection is involved.
Challenges in Diagnosing the Condition
Because infectious costochondritis is rare, it often isn’t the first condition a doctor considers. In Thailand, chest pain is more commonly investigated for heart or lung problems first. Tests like X-rays and blood work are often done to rule out more serious causes. If initial tests are inconclusive and pain remains in one spot, doctors may consider imaging such as a CT scan or MRI to get a closer look at the cartilage.
In some cases, a small sample of fluid from the area may be taken to identify the bacteria. This helps doctors choose the right antibiotic, since not all infections respond to the same medicine. Acting early is important to avoid the spread of the infection to surrounding tissue or bone.
Treatment Approaches in Thailand
Once diagnosed, treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics. These may be given through an IV at first, especially if the infection is severe, followed by oral medication to complete the course. Most patients begin to feel improvement within a week, but the full treatment may last several weeks to ensure the infection is cleared.
Pain relief is also part of recovery. Doctors may recommend mild painkillers to reduce discomfort while the antibiotics do their work. In some situations, if the infection has caused an abscess or if the tissue is badly damaged, surgery may be needed to clean the area.
What Recovery Looks Like
With proper treatment, most people recover fully. It’s important, however, to finish all prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve early. Stopping treatment too soon can allow the infection to return or become resistant.
During recovery, rest is important, but full inactivity isn’t always necessary. People in Thailand who rely on daily physical activity or manual work may need to temporarily reduce strain on the chest while healing.
Reducing the Risk of Future Infections
Good hygiene, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and seeking prompt care for skin wounds or infections can help reduce the risk of developing this condition. People who undergo surgery involving the chest should also follow post-operative care instructions closely to lower the chance of infection.
While infectious costochondritis is not common, it’s a condition that shouldn’t be ignored. Understanding what causes it and knowing when to seek help can make a big difference in how quickly someone recovers.
