Chest pain when coughing: what can it be and how to identify?

The cough is a natural reflex and voluntary body, and can arise as a result of some irritation of the throat (larynx, trachea or bronchi).

It is a mechanism that facilitates the removal of inhaled foreign particles and secretions from the upper respiratory tract.

However, it can also be a symptom of some disease. It is important to watch for chest pain when coughing. If so, the ideal is to look for a doctor who will examine the patient to find out the cause.

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Chest pain when coughing: what can it be?

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The lungs occupy almost the entire chest, so it is usually common to hurt the chest in cases of constant cough. Due to the proximity of the lung to the heart, sometimes the pain can be confused with heart problems.

After weeks of coughing, the windpipe can become irritated and inflamed, causing pain in the middle of the chest, which can get worse as the cough persists.

Chest pain usually comes from coughing and can get worse when breathing, especially when you take a deep breath.

The fact that the symptom is common in cases of cough does not mean that it cannot be associated with other things, including lung diseases.

Some cases that may be associated with chest pain when coughing:

  • Pneumonia : can also cause chest pain, associated with fever, tiredness, shortness of breath, cough and phlegm;
  • Pulmonary embolism : can cause chest pain, which appears suddenly. This is more common in women who take contraceptives or people who smoke;
  • Lung problems in general : some examples that can cause chest pain are bronchitis, asthma or lung infection;
  • Muscle effort : in situations of effort, the muscles can become very tight and can cause pain. It can get worse when breathing and is made worse by turning the torso;
  • Gases : the accumulation of gases in the intestine, common in those with constipation, can compress the abdominal organs and cause chest pain. The pain is usually a sharp twinge that appears and disappears, especially when the belly is bent when sitting or lowering.

Syrup for dry, allergic and phlegm cough

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How is the chest pain when coughing?

Chest pain when coughing can vary. It can come in the form of stitches, a feeling of tightness, burning, among others.

The affected site may also change, being on the right or left side of the chest, centralized, in the rib cage. In addition, it is possible to radiate to other parts of the body as in the case of heart disease.

Here are some specifications:

Cough with phlegm

Cough with phlegm can be associated with infections, allergies or viral diseases. Mucus, or phlegm, helps to fight the body’s invading microbes. When there is an infection, the body tends to expel excess mucus, which is nothing more than a defense mechanism for the body.

It is important to observe the color of this mucus, to try to identify the possible severity of the problem. In general, white phlegm does not indicate any serious illness and may be associated with the flu .

As the problem worsens, the body’s defenses work to expel microorganisms, and the phlegm changes to a darker color, which can be a warning sign for pneumonia .

If the cough is accompanied by chest pain and thick, dark phlegm, seek a professional to do the necessary tests to diagnose the problem.

Read more: What can be chest discomfort and pain?

Under the left breast

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Pain in the left side of the chest, in general, can be associated with heart problems or in the breast itself.

When there is a heart problem, there is usually severe pain on the left side of the chest, which can be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea and dizziness , and can radiate to other regions.

The pain specifically under the left breast can also indicate an inflammation problem in the region (which is usually common during breastfeeding).

In such cases, the pain is usually associated with redness of the skin and a feeling of heat in the breasts.

Cases of chest pain deserve attention, as they are an indication that something is not right and the ideal is to always see a doctor.

In the middle of the chest

Chest pain is a very common complaint and it can be acute or subtle. The sensations can be of discomfort, tightness in the chest, pressure or pricking (needles).

In cases of pain in the middle of the chest, it can be associated with heart problems and usually also radiates to nearby areas such as the back, neck, jaw, shoulders and arms.

Is chest pain when coughing pneumonia? It is severe?

Chest pain when coughing is not always associated with pneumonia. However, you need to be aware if symptoms persist.

If the cough is accompanied by chills, sweat, pallor and a high fever , it can be an indication of pneumonia, which is an infection in the lungs, caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.

The pulmonary alveoli, which are small pockets found in the lungs, are filled with pus, as well as mucus and fluids, making it difficult to breathe.

In general, the disease occurs when there is a failure in the body’s defenses and can arise after a flu or bronchitis .

Pneumonia is a serious disease, but it has treatment.

Home remedy for cough: how to relieve symptoms?

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Health is a very precious asset. It is important to be aware of any symptoms and changes.

As we saw in the text, pain when coughing may or may not be an indication of something serious, so it is always good to consult a specialist to avoid complications.

In order not to lose information about health and well-being, keep following the Healthy Minute.

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