When the costochondral joint becomes inflamed it can result in sharp chest pain and tenderness, which may develop gradually or start suddenly. The pain may be made worse by: a particular posture – such as lying down; pressure on your chest – such as wearing a seatbelt or hugging someone; deep breathing, coughing and sneezing and physical activity. It can be difficult to tell the difference between the chest pain associated with costochondritis and pain caused by more serious conditions, such as a heart attack. However, a heart attack usually causes more widespread pain and additional symptoms, such as breathlessness, nausea and sweating.
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