Symptoms of costochondritis in children

The most common symptom of costochondritis in children is chest pain. If your child has chest discomfort or pain, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out potential health risks. Costochondritis may manifest as local tenderness, chest pain that worsens with activity, or even a feeling of difficulty breathing, and is usually caused by inflammation or trauma.

1) Chest pain

The most obvious symptom of costochondritis is chest pain, which is usually located on both sides of the sternum, especially at the junction of the third to fifth costal cartilages. The pain may be constant or aggravated by movement, deep breathing, or changes in body position. For children, the pain may limit their daily activities and affect their mood. Parents can help their children avoid strenuous activities and use children's doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen under the guidance of a doctor to relieve pain and inflammation.

2) Local tenderness and swelling

The painful area of ​​the child's chest usually has obvious tenderness when gently pressed, and sometimes there may be mild swelling. The inflammatory response causes these areas to become more sensitive, which is also a typical sign of costochondritis. To relieve the pain, parents can use a warm towel to apply to the painful area for about 15-20 minutes at a time, which helps promote local blood circulation and relieve discomfort.

3) Breathing discomfort

When costochondritis is severe, the child may be reluctant to take a deep breath due to chest pain, resulting in shallow and rapid breathing, and occasionally even a slight feeling of dyspnea. Parents need to observe whether their children have similar symptoms, such as obvious rapid breathing or bluish face, and take their children to the hospital immediately. Usually, mild respiratory discomfort is temporary, but close observation and timely treatment are still very important.

4) Affects mood and sleep

Due to pain and discomfort, costochondritis may cause anxiety and irritability in children, affecting their sleep quality. Creating a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment, such as adjusting the height and humidity of the pillow, can help children rest better. At the same time, communication and comfort can reduce the psychological burden on children.

Costochondritis is usually harmless in children, and the symptoms will disappear as the disease progresses. However, in order to avoid misdiagnosis of other possible serious chest diseases, such as heart or lung problems, it is important to see a doctor in time to confirm the cause. Parents need to pay more attention to their children's physical abnormalities in daily life and intervene appropriately to help their children recover as soon as possible.