May also be called: Tietze Syndrome Tietze (TEET-zuh) disease is a condition that causes swelling and pain in the joints where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum). More to Know Ribs are attached to the breastbone by rubbery cartilage at points called costosternal joints. Pain in one or more of these joints is called costochondritis. Tietze disease happens when there is swelling along with the pain. Tietze disease can cause a sharp, stabbing pain in the chest that makes some people think they're having a heart attack, but Tietze disease is rarely a serious condition. Often, doctors don't know why people get Tietze disease, but it can sometimes be caused by an injury to the chest, repeated coughing, or physical strain due to heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Treatment for Tietze disease is usually directed at reducing pain until the condition clears up. Keep in Mind Usually, Tietze disease is harmless other than the pain it causes. Tietze disease may come and go and last for several weeks or months, but most of the time it eventually goes away on its own and causes no complications. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles First Aid: Chest Pains Chest pain can be caused by many things, but it is rarely a sign of heart trouble in children. Here's what to do about it. Read More Costochondritis Costochondritis is a painful swelling of the cartilage that attaches the ribs to the breastbone. It's one of the most common causes of chest pain in kids and teens. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.