Pain in ribs on front left side

[nrogers39]

Lifted left arm to hug someone and felt a severe pain in rib area just under and behind left breast.  Has intensified over one week period.  Coughing and movement are very painful.  When touched, area feels like it was bruised, but there are no visible signs of bruising.  Very slight swelling.  At night, turning over is very painful.  Intensifies after walking.  Any general movement is painful, but it worse at night.  Bending over is excruciating.

[gerthella]

I had identical symptoms a few months ago. Thought I was having a heart attack. The ER doc said my heart was fine, that I had chest wall inflammation, otherwise called Chondritis.  They don't know what causes it but it usually lasts from 30 to 60 days. There seems to be some correlation between the person getting Chondritis  and also having arthritis or thoracic surgery. The doctor ordered me to take Aleve as an anti-inflammatory and it worked just fine.  I wish you luck and hope this heals quickly for you.

[ROXIEB]

Do you have a doctors appt? Sounds like you need to be seen and soon. That must be terrible. I don't know what it could be but it sounds bad enough to warrant a doctor's visit. Good luck.