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FACTS:

• The child with funnel chest has a depression in the center of his/her chest.  This depression may appear quite deep.
  
• See a doctor if the depression is deep, as this may affect the heart and lungs.
  
• Funnel chest can be caused by rickets or may be passed down from birth parents.  For most cases, the cause is not known.
  
• Pigeon breast affects more boys than girls. It usually appears in girls early in life and in boys as they grow.
  
• Both funnel chest and pigeon breast may be mild or severe and can be associated with scoliosis, respiratory problems, and heart defects.
  
• Both conditions may cause difficulty playing and exercising. Growing children may experience chest pain, tenderness and pain in the breastbone area.

TREATMENT:

• If a child has either chest condition, the child should be seen by a doctor.
  
• These can be diagnosed with an x-ray.
  
• Mild cases may correct themselves as the child grows.
  
• Surgery is advised if the chest defect is moderate to severe or the child experiences breathing difficulties or chest pain from any exercise.  See a doctor immediately if this happens.