Fibromyalgia and Chest Pain
The link between Fibromyalgia and chest pain known as Costochondritis is well recorded. Many people with Fibromyalgia experience severe pain in their ribs and sternum. The chest pain is so severe that many people believe they are having a heart attack and end up in emergency rooms.
To have Fibromyalgia and chest pain that is so severe that you believe you are having a heart attack is very frightening. And being taken to A and E by ambulance is extremely stressful. After extensive tests and procedures including Electrocardiography (ECG), Echocardiogram, X rays and blood tests it is found that you have not in fact suffered a heart attack. No explanation for the tremendous chest pain can be found, other than the diagnosis of Costochondritis.
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. The condition affects the cartilage where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum). This area is the costochondral joint. The current treatment for Costochondritis is simply painkillers.
Many people who have Fibromyalgia and chest pain are diagnosed with Costochondritis. As if all over body pain isn’t enough many Fibromyalgia sufferers have to endure unexplained chest pain. Costochondritis, just like Fibromyalgia occurs most often in women.
Experts believe that if you have not suffered an injury or strain to the chest area there may be no clear reason why you have Costochondritis.
But studies have shown that Costochondritis can be caused by Vitamin D deficiency. And as many people with Fibromyalgia are deficient in Vitamin D it could explain the link between Fibromyalgia and chest pain. I have written more about Vitamin D deficiency and Fibromyalgia.
My experience of Fibromyalgia and chest pain
At my worst I could not believe that having Fibromyalgia and chest pain could be so debilitating. It was bad enough suffering from all over body aches and pain, chronic fatigue and crippling depression plus many other symptoms without the pain of Costochondritis. I had pain in my breast bone (sternum) plus pain in my front and back ribs.
No painkiller seemed to ease the Costochondritis pain and I wept most evenings.
While researching the connection with Fibromyalgia and chest pain, I found that many women have both conditions. Further research showed there was a connection between Costochondritis and Vitamin D deficiency.
I checked my likelihood of having a Vitamin D deficiency by following the online test.
The test involved pressing onto my sternum (breastbone) and then pressing on my tibias (shinbones) to see if they were painful or tender.
Well I didn’t need to press too hard because they were painful anyway. I was astounded by this test as it meant there was a 93% chance of being Vitamin D deficient.
I started to find ways to rectify my Vitamin D deficiency immediately.
More on Fibromyalgia and Chest Pain
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tender points. Although the exact cause of Fibromyalgia is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Fibromyalgia can also coexist with other conditions, such as costochondritis.
Costochondritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). It typically presents as chest pain and tenderness, often worsened by movement or pressure. The exact cause of costochondritis is often unknown, but it is thought to be related to excessive strain, injury, or inflammation in the affected area.
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with various health conditions, including musculoskeletal pain and inflammation. Some studies suggest that low levels of vitamin D may be linked to an increased risk of Fibromyalgia and costochondritis. However, the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and these conditions is complex, and more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved.
Vitamin D is important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. It plays a role in calcium absorption and regulation, as well as immune function. Deficiency in vitamin D can lead to muscle weakness, bone pain, and increased susceptibility to inflammation.
While there is some evidence to suggest a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and Fibromyalgia or costochondritis, it's important to note that these conditions have multifactorial causes and are likely influenced by various factors. Other factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, and lifestyle factors may also contribute to the development and progression of these conditions.
If you are experiencing chest pain or symptoms of Fibromyalgia, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. They can assess your symptoms, medical history, and order appropriate tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. They may also consider checking your vitamin D levels and recommend appropriate supplementation if deficiency is detected. Treatment for Fibromyalgia and costochondritis typically involves a multidisciplinary approach that may include medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and pain management techniques.