Occasional sharp, needle-like chest pain in adolescents
Apr 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Adolescents occasionally experiencing sharp, needle-like chest pain may be caused by intercostal neuritis or costochondritis. In addition, herpes zoster cannot be ruled out as a possible cause. Aside from the aforementioned reasons, angina pectoris or other diseases may also cause such symptoms. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical attention whenever discomfort occurs to avoid delaying treatment.
Occasional sharp, needle-like chest pain in adolescents may be caused by intercostal neuritis or costochondritis, and herpes zoster cannot be excluded either. Details are as follows:
1. Intercostal Neuritis
Intercostal neuritis is associated with conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and thoracic spine injuries. It presents as burning or needle-like pain in the intercostal nerve region, sometimes radiating to the chest. Medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, and oryzanol tablets may be taken under medical guidance to improve symptoms. These medications help nourish the nerves.
2. Costochondritis
Costochondritis is primarily caused by infection or trauma. Symptoms include chest wall pain and swelling, which may worsen significantly after strenuous activity, accompanied by sharp or burning pain. Pain relief may be achieved by taking medications such as acetaminophen tablets, celecoxib tablets, or etoricoxib tablets under medical advice. These medications have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
3. Herpes Zoster
Herpes zoster is an infectious disease affecting the skin and nerves. Symptoms include general fatigue, headache, low-grade fever, as well as localized pain in the skin and chest area. Antiviral medications such as valacyclovir tablets, acyclovir tablets, or ganciclovir tablets may be prescribed for treatment. These medications have antiviral properties.
In addition to the above causes, angina pectoris or other diseases cannot be excluded. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical attention upon experiencing any discomfort to avoid delays in treatment.
