Costochondritis is associated with pain in the chest; the pain occurs due to inflammation of the bones. The inflammation occurs where the rib bones and the breastbones connect. The pain can be milder to severe depending on the intensity of inflammation.
The major cause of Costochondritis is the damage done to cartilage; this might happen due to overuse of the body. The age groups who are prone to the disease are those between 20 years to 40 years. People involved in sports activities like athletic or rowing are more susceptible to these diseases. Viral infections which might affect the upper portion of the body are also one of the major causes. Accidents in which the chest gets injured also results in costochondritis.
Pain in the chest is one of the most important symptoms of costochondritis; the pain may be milder or severe. So it is always better to consult a doctor the moment one starts feeling some pain in the chest. On visiting a doctor apprise him whether you are suffering from any heart disease or not because sometimes the pain might be due to some heart problems.
The other symptoms of costochondritis include feeling pain while breathing especially during deep breadth.  When there is costochondritis then there are chances that the tender portion of your body will swell and there will be red marks there. This also serves as one of the symptoms of costochondritis. Many often you might feel pain in the chest while coughing.
Application of the heat and anti inflammatory drugs can help in curing the disease. Apply hot packs of heat at the affected portion, this might provide relief. However, if these methods are not proving effective better see your doctor.