Hi, Sudden chest pain and painful breathing can be caused by several different conditions, some of which may be serious and require urgent medical attention. Here are some possible causes: * Angina: This is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn t get enough blood flow, often due to narrowed or blocked arteries. It may feel like a squeezing or pressure in the chest that can spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. * Pulmonary embolism: This is a blockage of one of the arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that has traveled from another part of the body. Symptoms may include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and coughing up blood. * Pneumonia: This is an infection of the lungs that can cause chest pain and painful breathing, especially when taking deep breaths. Other symptoms may include cough, fever, chills, and fatigue. * Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, and can cause sharp pain in the chest that gets worse with deep breaths or movement. * Muscle strain: If you have recently engaged in physical activity or lifting heavy objects, you may have strained a muscle in your chest or ribcage, which can cause pain and difficulty breathing. * Gastrointestinal issues: Certain gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux or gallbladder disease, can cause chest pain and discomfort that may be worsened by breathing. If you are experiencing sudden chest pain and painful breathing, it s important to seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of a serious condition that requires urgent treatment. Call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room right away. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician