What department should I visit for intercostal neuralgia?
Disease description:
I don't know what's going on these days, but I've been experiencing significant pain in my chest area, with a kind of pulling or sharp sensation. I'd like to ask which department I should visit for intercostal neuralgia?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
Which department to visit for intercostal neuralgia mainly depends on the underlying cause and symptom presentation.
1. Neurology: Intercostal neuralgia may be related to nerve damage, presenting as needle-like, electric-shock-like, or knife-cutting pain. When the pain exhibits these characteristics, it is recommended to first visit the neurology department.
2. Orthopedics: If intercostal neuralgia is caused by conditions such as rib fractures, where there is compression of the intercostal nerves, an orthopedic consultation is appropriate.
3. Thoracic Surgery: If diseases such as pleurisy are present, which may irritate surrounding chest tissues and cause intercostal neuralgia, the thoracic surgery department is the suitable choice.
4. Pain Management: Conditions such as costochondritis and intercostal neuritis can also lead to intercostal neuralgia. As these conditions are typically related to inflammatory irritation, the pain management department is another option.
