Dear patient here is a list of conditions that can cause pain around the diaphragm Fracture of lower ribs Costochondritis Shortness of breath Pleurisy Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease (COPD, Emphysema) Pneumonia or Bronchitis Asthma Sprain/Strain or Tear of the Rectus abdominis, Internal or External Obliques, or Intercostals Gallbladder Disease Splenic Disease Pancreatitis. In your case since there is associated laboured breathing I suggest it could be asthma, cold,pneumonia/bronchitis or pleurisy. Asthma: An allergic reaction which can lead to bouts of breathlessness and hyperventilation Copd: Similar to asthma in its presentation except it occurs throughout the day. Severe wheezing and a long history of smoking AI almost pathognomonic Pneumonia/ bronchitis: Cough with sputum,fever,chest pain, increased rate of breathing are the symptoms to look out for. Hope this answers your question