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Costochondritis

Costochondritis is inflammation where your ribs join the bone in the middle of your chest (breastbone). It can cause sharp chest pain, especially when moving or breathing. It usually gets better on its own over time.

If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Prescription review online

Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor online

Talk to a doctor online

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Costochondritis is inflammation where your ribs join the bone in the middle of your chest (breastbone). It can cause sharp chest pain, especially when moving or breathing. It usually gets better on its own over time.

Symptoms of costochondritis

Costochondritis may cause sharp pain in the front or side of your chest.

The pain may be worse when:

  • moving your upper body
  • lying down
  • breathing deeply
  • you press the middle of your chest

Call 112 if:

You have sudden chest pain that:

  • spreads to your arms, back, neck, or jaw
  • makes your chest feel tight or heavy
  • started with a shortness of breath, sweating, feeling sick or being sick
  • lasts more than 15 minutes

You could be having a heart attack. Call 112 immediately as you need immediate treatment in hospital.

Treatments for costochondritis

Costochondritis usually gets better on its own, over time. It can last for a few weeks to several months.

Painkillers that help with inflammation, like ibuprofen, may be recommended to help with the pain.

If you have very bad pain that does not get better over time, you may be offered a steroid injection to help reduce inflammation or local anaesthetic to ease the pain.

Causes of costochondritis

It is not always known what causes costochondritis, but it may be caused by:

  • an injury to your chest
  • repetitive upper body movements, like lifting
  • coughing a lot

Sometimes it may be caused by a problem with the joints in the back, or another underlying condition like fibromyalgia or rheumatoid arthritis.

It can also be caused by an infection.

Consult with a doctor about Costochondritis

Consult with a doctor about Costochondritis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Online doctors for Costochondritis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Costochondritis with a doctor online.

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Doctor

Chikeluo Okeke

General medicine 4 years exp.

Dr Chikeluo Okeke is an internal medicine doctor with extensive international clinical experience. Originally from Nigeria, he has worked across multiple European healthcare systems and currently practises in Sweden. This professional path has given him a strong understanding of different medical approaches and the ability to work effectively with patients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Dr Okeke focuses on general internal medicine and adult primary care, combining clinical accuracy with careful attention to lifestyle, personal context, and everyday health concerns. His consultations are particularly well suited for people who seek medical advice online, live abroad, or need clear guidance without unnecessary complexity.

He provides online consultations covering symptom assessment, prevention, and long-term management of chronic conditions, helping patients understand what is happening and decide on appropriate next steps.

Common reasons for consultation:

  • General internal medicine concerns and initial health assessment.
  • Acute symptoms such as fever, cough, infections, pain, or weakness.
  • Chronic conditions and treatment adjustment.
  • Blood pressure issues, fatigue, metabolic concerns.
  • Preventive consultations and routine check-ups.
  • Interpretation of laboratory results and medical reports.
  • Medical advice for patients receiving care online.

Dr Okeke is known for his clear communication, calm approach, and cultural awareness. He listens carefully, explains medical decisions in a structured way, and supports patients in making informed choices about their health.

Online consultations with Dr Chikeluo Okeke offer reliable internal medicine care without geographic limitations, focused on medical relevance, clarity, and patient comfort.

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Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years exp.

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

5.0 (2)
Doctor

Svetlana Kolomeeva

Cardiology 18 years exp.

Dr. Svetlana Kolomeeva is a general practitioner and internal medicine doctor providing online consultations for adults. She helps patients manage acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and preventive care. Her clinical focus includes cardiovascular health, hypertension control, and managing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, sleep issues, and overall low energy.

Patients commonly seek her help for:

  • High blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, swelling, palpitations.
  • Diagnosis and management of hypertension, arrhythmias, and tachycardia.
  • Metabolic syndrome, excess weight, high cholesterol.
  • Chronic fatigue, insomnia, poor concentration, anxiety.
  • Respiratory symptoms: colds, flu, sore throat, cough, fever.
  • Digestive issues: heartburn, bloating, constipation, IBS symptoms.
  • Chronic conditions: diabetes, thyroid disorders.
  • Interpretation of lab tests and medical reports, therapy adjustment.
  • Second opinion and decision-making support.
  • Cardiovascular disease prevention and metabolic risk reduction.
  • Long-term follow-up and dynamic health monitoring.

Dr Kolomeeva combines clinical expertise with personalised care. She clearly explains diagnoses, guides patients through symptoms and treatment options, and provides actionable plans. Her consultations are designed not only to address current complaints but also to stabilise chronic conditions and prevent future complications. She supports patients through every stage of care – from first symptoms to ongoing health management.

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Doctor

Karim BenHarbi

General medicine 9 years exp.

Dr. Karim Ben Harbi is a licensed general practitioner based in Italy. He provides online consultations for adults and children, combining international clinical experience with evidence-based medicine. His care approach is focused on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalised health guidance.

Dr. Ben Harbi received his medical degree from Sapienza University in Rome. His training included hands-on experience in diverse settings — tropical medicine, rural healthcare, and urban outpatient practice. He also conducted clinical research in microbiology, exploring the role of the gut microbiome in chronic gastrointestinal issues.

You can consult Dr. Ben Harbi for:

  • General health concerns, prevention, and primary care.
  • Hypertension, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, metabolic issues.
  • Cold, cough, flu, respiratory infections, sore throat, fever.
  • Chronic digestive issues: bloating, gastritis, IBS, microbiome imbalance.
  • Skin rashes, mild allergic reactions, basic dermatological complaints.
  • Medication guidance, treatment adjustments, prescription review.
  • Paediatric concerns — fever, infections, general well-being.
  • Lifestyle optimisation: stress, sleep, weight, and diet counselling.

Dr. Ben Harbi offers reliable, accessible medical support through online consultations, helping patients make informed decisions about their health with a clear, structured, and compassionate approach.

5.0 (812)
Doctor

Alina Tsurkan

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Alina Tsurkan is a licensed family medicine physician based in Portugal, offering online consultations for adults and children. She provides professional primary care, with a focus on prevention, accurate diagnosis, and long-term management of acute and chronic conditions.

Dr. Tsurkan supports patients with a wide range of health issues, including:

  • Respiratory infections: cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, and lingering coughs.
  • ENT conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis (ear infections), sore throat, allergic rhinitis.
  • Eye conditions: allergic or infectious conjunctivitis, red eyes, irritation.
  • Digestive issues: acid reflux (GERD), gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating, nausea.
  • Urinary and reproductive health: urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystitis, prevention of recurrent infections.
  • Chronic diseases: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, weight management.
  • Neurological complaints: headaches, migraines, sleep disturbances, fatigue, general weakness.
  • Children’s health: fever, infections, digestive issues, follow-ups, vaccination guidance.

She also provides:

  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange in Portugal.
  • Personalised preventive care and wellness consultations.
  • Interpretation of test results and medical reports.
  • Follow-up care and medication review.
  • Support in managing multiple coexisting conditions.
  • Remote prescription management and medical documentation.

Dr. Tsurkan’s approach is evidence-based and holistic. She works closely with each patient to develop an individualised care plan that addresses both symptoms and root causes. Her goal is to empower patients to take control of their health and maintain well-being through lifestyle adjustments, routine check-ups, and early intervention.

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