Could black mold lead to costochondritis?
Patient: Hi, I was wondering if you could tell me if black mold could cause costochondritis? My fiancee and I are currently living in a house with black mold in the bathroom and other rooms in the house. We took her in to the ER twice in the past week and a half because of chest pain/tightness and numbness in her extremities. She's 22, ~180 lbs, and has a history of kidney stones/infections. The ER doctor diagnosed her with costochondritis but had no idea what caused it and it doesn't seem to be getting better even with Antiinflammatories (Relafin) and painkillers (only work for a SHORT time, IE <20 min, when she's limited to 2/day). Doctor: Hi I can understand your concern...Costochondritis caused mainly by trauma or physical strain....It may also be occur as part of osteoarthritis...Sometime viral or fungal infection of rib joint can lead it...So yes mold can affect it sometime....It is inflammation of costal cartilage....Apply hot pads over affected area.Take brufen for few days....Avoid heavy weight lift and strenous work.Proper sleep posture.Chest muscle stretching exercise useful..Finally if available TENS like treatment that is transcutaneus electrical nerve stimulation useful....Take care...You will gradually recover...Dr.Parth