What is the best painkiller for costochondritis?

Painkillers. Painkillers, such as paracetamol, can be used to ease mild to moderate pain. Taking a type of medication called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, 2 or 3 times a day can also help control the pain and swelling.

Why does costochondritis hurt so bad?

Pain is often worst where the rib cartilage attaches to the breastbone (sternum), but it can also occur where the cartilage attaches to the rib. Costochondritis (kos-toe-kon-DRY-tis) is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone (sternum).

What are the symptoms of severe costochondritis?

Symptoms of costochondritis include:

• sharp pains or aches on the side of your sternum area.
• pain or discomfort in one or more ribs.
• pain or discomfort that gets worse when you cough or breathe in deeply.

Are muscle relaxers good for costochondritis?

If a case of costochondritis is causing uncomfortable symptoms, several approaches help relieve them. “Often anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or a muscle relaxant known as cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril),” says Schwartz.

Does Voltaren Gel help costochondritis?

I tried Voltaren Emulgel 2 times a day directly on the sternum area and I found it just makes the sharp pain disappear. It was a great relief for costochondritis.

How should you sleep with costochondritis?

Other than taking medications for pain and inflammation, what I find helps is not to sleep on the side affected, and try not to sleep on back or stomach. When sleeping on other side prop up your ribs with a pillow this will give them support throughout the night.

How long does it take for costochondritis to heal?

Costochondritis most often goes away on its own in a few days or weeks. It can also take up to a few months.

Does costochondritis hurt all the time?

It usually gets worse if you breathe deeply or move your upper body. When you press on your chest, it feels tender and painful. The pain usually lasts for a few weeks or months, but about a third of those with costochondritis will have it for about a year.

What autoimmune disease causes costochondritis?

The Costochondritis–Rheumatoid Arthritis Connection While the chest pain may be related to an inflammatory disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, it can also be partially caused by noninflammatory conditions, such as fibromyalgia.

Will prednisone help costochondritis?

Corticosteroids are powerful medicines that can help reduce pain and swelling. They can be injected into and around your costochondral joint to help relieve the symptoms of costochondritis. Corticosteroid injections may be recommended if your pain is severe, or if NSAIDs are unsuitable or ineffective.