Costochondritis

[wannabenormal5]

My husband has been diagnosed with costochondritis and tietze's .. we realize this can be a lifelong thing as he does heavy construction for a living. Accepting that, however, can this cause esophageal spasms causing difficulty getting food to go down ? Doesn't happen often but once is scary and has happened randomly over the past two years since the chest wall pain started. Dr is wanting to do a scope just to check things out in there but just wondering if it's truly necessary. Thanks for any advice and info!

[wannabenormal5]

Thanks for all your comments!! The swallowing problem doesn't happen often at all but will get it checked out. Its so random, wondering if anxiety isn't the cause. Hadn't thought if the gluten so may look into that also!
Thanks again!!

[revmother]

No costochondroitis does not cause esophageal spams. I have had both on and off for years. I am also an RN. Esophageal spasms usually occur due to the damage caused by chronic GERD.  I have had esophageal dilation twice with really good results...just make sure you have a specialist do it as there is a danger of perforation. NSAIDS work with any inflammation and some doctors also inject the areas of pain in the sternum for the costochondroitis. Heavy lifting should be avoided.  in regards to GERD mine virtually disappeared  after going to a gluten free diet. Hoping for the best for your hubby!

[sblythe]

No - this doesn't cause esophageal spasms and trouble getting food down - however - all the Advil, etc., that he may have taken over the years may have caused some problems with his esophagus. A scope procedure is probably a good idea - he may have a narrowing that needs to be stretched and opened up.

[EdwardPB]

It's either Costochondritis or Tietze's, but not both. Tietze is Costochondritis with swelling added. Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage between the ribs. Tietze syndrome is Costochondritis with the addition of swelling of the local tissue.
Neither are "lifelong things," but can be chronic. (both are cause by localized trauma or infections, but a person can become more susceptible to the effects)
Esophageal spasms, as a result of either, would be highly unlikely. However, in addition to being commonly caused by anxiety reactions; if he has issues causing consistent tension of the middle and lower neck muscles, this could cause a "tightness" effecting swallowing that would not actually be an esophageal spasm.