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Although pectus excavatum may sound like a rare condition, it is a condition that can affect many people. In this article, we will discuss the structure of the chest, causes and symptoms of pectus excavatum, as well as methods of diagnosis, conservative and surgical treatment, and effective exercises for pectus excavatum.
Pectus excavatum – structure of the chest
Before diving deeper into the topic of pectus excavatum, it is helpful to understand how the rib cage works. The thorax consists of 24 ribs, the spine and the sternum. These elements create a structure that protects internal organs such as the heart and lungs. Normally, the chest is symmetrical and flat.
What is a pectus excavatum?
Pectus excavatum, also known as pectus excavatum, is a congenital deformity of the chest in which the sternum is pulled inward, creating a concave indentation. This defect may be visible from birth or gradually worsen during growth. For some people it may be just a cosmetic problem, while for others it can cause serious health complications.
Pectus excavatum – causes
There are no precisely established causes of pectus excavatum, but there are many theories about its origin. The most frequently mentioned factors are:
- Heredity: This disease may have a hereditary tendency, so if someone in the family has suffered from pectus excavatum, there is a greater risk that it will appear in subsequent generations.
- Environmental influences: Some research suggests that environmental factors, such as the position of the fetus in the mother’s uterus, may influence the development of thoracic defects.
- Growth: The period of intense growth during adolescence may contribute to the deepening of deformities.
Pectus excavatum – symptoms. what does a cobbler’s chest look like?
Symptoms of pectus excavatum may vary and depend on the degree of deformation. The most important symptoms are:
- Concave indentation near the sternum.
- Pain or discomfort in the chest area.
- Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
- Heart and respiratory problems if the deformity is severe.
- Cosmetic disturbing changes in the appearance of the chest.
Pectus excavatum – diagnostics
The diagnosis of pectus excavatum is usually based on a physical examination and medical history. Your doctor may also order additional tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or heart tests, to assess the severity of the deformity and possible complications.
Pectus excavatum – conservative treatment
Treatment of pectus excavatum can be varied and depends on the patient’s age, degree of deformation and symptoms. In some cases, especially in children, conservative therapy may help alleviate symptoms. This may include physical therapy, wearing special braces, and regular monitoring by a doctor.
Pectus excavatum – surgical treatment
If a pectus excavatum causes serious health problems or does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. The operation involves lifting the retracted sternum and restoring the correct shape of the chest. This is a complex procedure that requires careful evaluation by a surgeon.
Funnel chest – exercises
Chest exercises can help strengthen your chest muscles and improve your posture. However, they cannot always completely repair the deformity, especially if it is congenital. Examples of exercises include stretching the chest muscles, strengthening the back muscles, and regular breathing exercises.
Your suggestions
If you have a pectus excavatum or you notice any symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor. Each case is different, so only a specialist can tailor the appropriate treatment. Remember that early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and health.
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If you are interested in the topic of pectus excavatum, we recommend that you check out our other articles on the subject, which provide more detailed information on diagnosis, treatment and exercises.
Pectus excavatum is a problem that can be a challenge for both patients and doctors. However, proper management and treatment can help improve the quality of life of people affected by this chest defect.