Treatment: Antibiotics
When it comes to treating costochondritis, antibiotics play a crucial role, especially if the condition is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. If you are diagnosed with infectious costochondritis, your healthcare provider may recommend intravenous antibiotics, which are administered directly into your vein. Alternatively, oral antibiotics can also be prescribed. It is important to note that noninfectious costochondritis usually resolves on its own without the need for prescription medication. However, in the case of an infection, antibiotic therapy typically lasts for around two to three weeks to effectively treat infectious costochondritis.
Treatment: Surgery
When other treatment methods fail to provide relief, surgery may be necessary to treat costochondritis. The surgical removal of the inflamed cartilage can help alleviate the symptoms associated with this condition. It is important to note that surgery is considered a last-resort treatment option, and your doctor will provide guidance throughout the process. Prior to the surgery, you will have a consultation with a surgeon, and after the operation, you will have annual follow-up appointments. It is worth mentioning that if the costochondritis is caused by an infection, both intravenous antibiotics and surgical repair may be required. Additionally, the recovery time for infectious costochondritis is typically longer.