Sunken or pigeon chest (pectus excavatum or carinatum)

Overview

Some people feel short of breath or tired with exercise.

It can affect self-esteem, which is a valid reason for treatment.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sunken or pigeon chest

Less common

• Shortness of breath with exercise
• Chest pain

Look up a symptom: Getting winded easily with activity or stairs

When to get medical care

Causes

Cartilage growth.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Boys
• Family history

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Questions you may be asked

• Exercise tolerance

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• CT or MRI: Measures depth.
• Heart and lung tests:

Treatment

Options depend on severity.

Self-care

• Posture and chest exercises
• Do chest and posture exercises
• Stay active

Bracing for pigeon chest; surgery or vacuum bell for sunken chest.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Teens: Often noticed during growth spurts.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Surgery and bracing work well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Would a brace work?
• Does it affect my heart or lungs?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sunken or pigeon chest (pectus excavatum or carinatum)