DEAR DR. GOTT:
I’ve been diagnosed with costochondritis and have been unable to determine what causes the inflammation. I swim daily and work part-time. Is this a contagious illness I have picked up?
My doctor did not give me any medication except Indocin for pain. My chest and back hurt and I am extremely tired. I have not had any trauma or viral respiratory infections recently, have never smoked, nor did I go near people that smoke.
X-rays were taken and my doctor said my lungs are clear. I have had no surgeries and hope never to have any. I take vitamins, exercise and try to maintain a healthy life. The doctor said it could last as long as three weeks.
Please give me your thoughts on this illness. I had never heard of it before but it is painful and could make one think of a heart attack about to happen. [Read more...]