What Causes Sharp Pain In The Back While Coughing?

Brief Answer:
To rule out Pneumothorax, muscle strain

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for your query.
I'm Dr. Shuba Hariprasad and will be answering your query today.

Based on your symptoms I would like to primarily rule out Pneumothorax and muscle strain.

Would you please clarify a few things for me?
*how long have you had the cough?
*do you smoke?
*do you have any other symptoms? Fever, cold, sore throat?
*any history of lung disease? Asthma, bronchitis, for instance?
*do you have any other medical issues or take any medications?
*does it hurt when your stretch your arms above your head?


I recommend :
-apply anti inflammatory gels over the affected area in gentle circular motion after warm compresses. Do this thrice a day.
If the pain gets better then it's due to a muscle strain and will get better with continued therapy.

-if not, please see a physician
-x-ray of the chest to check for locked in air bubbles, infection or rib injury.
CT scan of the chest may be required.

Based on this a treatment plan will be initiated.

When we cough hard, pressure inside the lungs can build up to level that can burst a few alveoli. This can then then build up and cause pain while breathing.

This pain can worsen and cause breathing difficulty, dizziness and black out. If the pain becomes worse or you have any breathing difficulty, go to the ER right away. It may be an emergency.

Hope this helps.
Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with.
Wish you good health and speedy recovery.

Regards,
Dr. Shuba Hariprasad

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