It started at lunch time and just hurt when I took deep breaths. Eventually it got so bad I felt properly winded, like someone had punched me in the ribs. Upper back is also sore, between my shoulder blades.
My chest feels really tight and when I move around the pain is really bad. Hiccups hurt, laughing hurts etc.
Anyway I went to an and e to rule out heart attack or blood clot. I had a lot of tests but all was good, thankfully.
They said it can be costochonditis or even MS hug. How do you know which one it is ? Has anyone had a similar situation ?
Many thanks.
I have contacted my MS nurse team but they take ages to respond…
Hi Emily. I’ve had mild MS hugs but nothing painful. I’m absolutely no expert but how long has the pain etc lasted? As I say I’m no expert but from the little I know I think the MS Hug usually lasts from minutes to several hours- maybe most of a day.
I’m glad to hear your tests came back clear! Costochondritis typically causes localized pain in the chest and can be aggravated by movement, while the MS hug usually presents with a squeezing sensation around the torso. It’s best to discuss your symptoms further with your healthcare provider to determine the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
Hi. I’m new to the forum. Not too long after I was diagnosed, I had numbness on my right side and the sensation of a large belt being tightened right below my ribcage. It lasted for days until my doctor admitted me for maximum steroid IV treatment. It went away after that and fortunately I have not had that symptom since.