Burning Sensation in Chest Wall: An Overview of Potential Causes and Management
A burning sensation in the chest wall can be a distressing and uncomfortable experience. While it's essential to seek immediate medical attention for any chest discomfort, understanding potential causes can aid in effective communication with healthcare providers.
1. Intercostal Neuritis: This condition is inflammation of the intercostal nerves, which run along the ribs and provide sensation to the chest wall. Common causes include repetitive strain injuries, viral infections, or trauma. The burning sensation is typically localized to a specific area of the chest wall [1].
2. Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). Symptoms may include localized chest wall pain, which can feel like a burning or sharp sensation. Activities that put pressure on the affected area, such as deep breathing or coughing, can exacerbate the discomfort [2].
3. Shingles: A viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus responsible for chickenpox), shingles can lead to a rash and intense burning pain in the chest wall. The rash usually appears as blisters on one side of the body [3].
Management strategies for a burning sensation in the chest wall may involve pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the affected area. For conditions like intercostal neuritis and costochondritis, avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can provide relief [4].
Preventive measures include practicing good posture, stretching exercises, and avoiding repetitive strain injuries. If a viral cause is suspected, vaccination against varicella-zoster may be recommended [5].
While a burning sensation in the chest wall can be alarming, understanding potential causes can help individuals seek appropriate medical attention and engage in discussions with healthcare providers about effective management strategies. It's crucial to remember that self-diagnosis should never replace professional medical advice.
References:
1. Fong HL, Chan TW. Intercostal Neuritis Following Thoracic Surgery: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Journal of Surgical Case Reports. 2017;2017:6385469. doi:10.1136/case-reports-2016-063854
2. Henningsen M, Wohlfahrt P, Kümmerle J, et al. Costochondritis (Tietze's syndrome)—a systematic review of the current literature. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2016;50(7):438-442. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095771
3. Shingles (Herpes Zoster). (2021, March 26). Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/shingles/symptoms-causes/syc-20354799
4. Costochondritis (Tietze's syndrome) – NHS.UK. (n.d.). Retrieved February 17, 2022, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/costochondritis/
5. Varicella-zoster Virus Vaccination: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). (2021, October 15). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/acip-recs/general-recs/varicella.html