Patient's question:
I have a family history of intercostal neuralgia, especially my father and grandfather. I don't know if it's hereditary, and I haven't asked them. But I'm upset that I might also get it. Recently, I've been feeling discomfort in my intercostal area, so I want to ask how to properly check and diagnose intercostal neuralgia.Doctor's answer:
Intercostal neuralgia is pain that travels along the intercostal nerves, caused by inflammation, compression, or other factors. Intercostal neuralgia is not inherited across generations, but some of the underlying causes of this condition can be genetic. Diagnostic methods for a thorough examination are usually focused on identifying the cause. The following tests can be performed: CT or MRI scans of the spine to detect conditions such as lumbar disc herniation, thoracic spine fractures, or spinal tumors; a physical examination to check for the recurrence of shingles on the affected skin, among others.