Question

How is costochondritis diagnosed?

Answer 1

Diagnosing costochondritis starts with a process of elimination. When you go to your healthcare provider with chest pain, they’ll immediately test for:

• Heart and vascular problems, like a heart attack.
• Lung problems, like pneumonia.
• Digestive issues, like chronic acid reflux (also called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD).
• Musculoskeletal issues, like a broken rib.

Your healthcare provider may also talk to you about your mental/emotional health because stress, anxiety and panic attacks can cause chest pain.

Your healthcare provider will make a diagnosis of costochondritis based on your symptoms and their physical findings. Normally, there is no need for further testing.