rib inflammation and pain

[eadain]

Hi there,

I have been having problems with rib pain for about a year now. I realized it when the kids (both preschoolers) would bump into me. It doesn't seem to be that chondritis that's localized to just the sternum area-- i think that's called chostochondritis. My whole rib cage, front and back, collarbones, and hips seem to ache when I apply pressure to them. I don't know much about fibromyalgia other than there are no definitive blood tests for it, and there are points in the body that are affected. I don't think I have any of those specific points bothering me. However, the PCP seems to not have any idea what is wrong. they did some tests for lupus that came back negative, he also tested me to see if i have any underlying allergies that would cause inflammation. Nope.

Another thing.. I've been having some slight dizzy spells, and I've also noticed that I get the pins-and-needles feeling quite often now, in the middle of the night while trying to sleep, or while i'm reading a book. It used to be only when I sat on my legs. it's the oddest thing.

Does anyone have any idea what this could be? Does this sound like an auto immune disorder? Who do you think I should talk to, physician wise? I don't seem to be getting anywhere with PCP.

[hopeshell]

The problem in your chest may be costochondritis.  Unfortunately, there isn't any treatment that helps except pain relievers and heat.  It usually runs its course in time and you will get better but it recurs over and over again.  Lifting heavy objects makes it worse so you will want to limit that.  I was told this is common in people with fibro or unknown arthritic syndromes.   I have suffered with it for over 20 years.  I was dx with fibro. 15 years ago.  Unfortunately, I was also dx with early stage ovarian cancer last year (at 37)  and I think the surgery and hormone loss has sent me back into a flare of fibro.  Was glancing at this board and realized your post sounded just like what I always had.  Your symptoms do sound autoimmune to me.   I hope you find answers.

[patsy10]

I agree with the above posters.  Just wanted to add that lyme disease can cause all of those symptoms you described above.  It's very hard to diagnose as blood tests are not very accurate.

[eadain]

hey, i'm like that too. i am always wearing leisure wear at home or pjs whatever. and the bra comes off immediately. and even though i wear wireless bras, they still hurt. this fibro fog, is that when you can't think clearly? I thought maybe it was ADHD for me, that's why i have a hard time thinking. never thought that could be a problem associated with another issue.  I'll have to see if anyone specializes in fibro, that i could talk to... thanks for responding.

[LLWB]

I've had fibro for years. I have the trigger point pain, usually 16 out of the 18 pts. hurt. I have the rib pain, collar bone pain, joint pain, achey flu type pain, fibro-fog. You name it I hav it. It even hurts to wear a bra for more than a few hours at a time. ribs under breasts and in back, anywhere that any clothing puts pressure on my body. I live in sweats and baggy clothes unless I'm working, and I would there if I could get away with it!  You need to see a good rheumatologist specialising in fibro, they are hard to find.....if you question it being fibro after google-ing symptoms, and you are concerned about a neurological condition, see a neurologist. Most PCP's are not qualified to diagnosis and treat fibro, unless in conjunction with a specialist. Good luck, and if you have any further questions feel free to ask.