Intercostal neuralgia: causes, symptoms and methods of diagnosis

Thoracic radiculitis or intercostal neuralgia is the most common disease of the peripheral nervous system, caused by an inflamed or transmitted condition of nerve endings that extend from the spinal cord. In general, this disease occurs in middle-aged and older people, which is associated with age-related changes. Intercostal neuralgia in children is an exceptional case: this happens very rarely.

Sometimes this disease can develop as a result of certain pathological changes in the internal organs (in particular, the aortic aneurysm) or the herpes virus. Sometimes, among the causes that provoke the development of intercostal neuralgia, indicate regular microtraumas of intervertebral discs, allergic diseases, lung diseases or hypothermia. The main causes are osteochondrosis, as well as inflammation or trauma to the chest.

Keep in mind that alcohol abuse, the regular lack of B group vitamins, the presence of diabetes also contribute to the development of thoracic radiculitis.

There are some features of examination and treatment, when intercostal neuralgia is diagnosed during pregnancy. So, since a pregnant woman is extremely dangerous to use any medications or undergo procedures, she needs to be carefully examined in order to identify the cause of the disease. Only then the doctor should choose a qualified treatment so that it does not harm the fetus.

Intercostal neuralgia has several characteristic symptoms that distinguish it from other diseases of the chest and spine:

1. Shingles of paroxysmal pain, which is intensified during coughing, sneezing, as well as deep inspiration and any turns of the trunk. Typically, pain occurs from one side of the chest.
2. Pain can be accompanied by burning, tingling. A person can feel some numbness along the trunk of the nerve end. Also painful syndrome gives in the heart, in the area of the scapula or back.

Note that the nature of the pain may be different. In some people, intercostal neuralgia is manifested by mild pain, which is slightly worse when walking, moving or feeling the affected area. Many are complaining about paroxysmal piercing pain, which is almost impossible to endure.

The true cause of these disorders is determined only by modern methods of diagnostic research (in particular, X-ray computer or magnetic resonance imaging). Thanks to these studies, not only tumors are detected, but also the causes of inflammatory processes, their location, as well as many other disorders of the brain and spinal cord and internal organs.

As a rule, intercostal neuralgia is treated, based on what causes caused its occurrence. If the disease manifests itself in an acute form, a bed rest for several days is recommended. And there are certain requirements for the surface on which the patient should lie. So, it should be firm, even: it's better to put a thick plywood or shield under the mattress. Pain weakens dry heat: the use of electric hot water bottles, mustard plasters, warm sand in bags, and the application of pepper plaster on the affected areas. You can not bend over, do sharp movements, stay in a sitting position for a long time and lift weights. You can sometimes wear a corset, but a short time to avoid the development of muscle weakness.

Medication: taking analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of tablets, suppositories or injections.