How is pigeon chest treated?

Funnel chest may be caused by genetic factors, congenital developmental abnormalities, environmental factors, vitamin D deficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc., and can be improved according to different situations. It is recommended to visit a hospital promptly and receive treatment under the guidance of a physician.

1. Genetic factors: Genetic factors in funnel chest may involve variations in multiple genes that affect the growth and development of the sternum and ribs, leading to sternal protrusion. Treatment for funnel chest caused by genetic factors mainly involves surgical correction. Common surgical methods include sternal elevation and minimally invasive procedures.

2. Congenital developmental abnormalities: During embryonic development, abnormal development of the sternum and ribs may lead to funnel chest. For pediatric patients, early surgical intervention may help improve cardiopulmonary function and appearance. Surgical treatments include sternal depression and sternal turnover procedures.

3. Environmental factors: Exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy or environmental pollution may result in funnel chest after birth. Younger patients with mild symptoms can use orthotic devices combined with physical therapy to correct the condition, applying external pressure to the thoracic cage to guide the sternum and ribs to grow in a normal direction.

4. Vitamin D deficiency: Lack of vitamin D can lead to bone softening and poor development, which may cause funnel chest. Supplementing vitamin D and calcium, taking oral vitamin D supplements, and increasing dietary intake of vitamin D-rich foods, such as cod liver oil, egg yolks, and dairy products, can help restore normal bone development.

5. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Long-term respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may cause structural changes in the thoracic cage, leading to funnel chest, which may be accompanied by dyspnea, coughing, and recurrent infections. It is recommended to follow medical advice in using medications such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules, ibuprofen tablets, and cefuroxime axetil tablets to improve symptoms.

The treatment of funnel chest should be comprehensively considered based on factors such as the patient's age, severity of symptoms, and underlying causes. Conservative treatment, orthotic correction, and surgical treatment are commonly used methods, and patients should choose the most suitable treatment plan under the guidance of a physician.