Chest pain while coughing
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Chest Pain While Coughing: Causes and Insights
Chest pain while coughing is a symptom that can arise from various underlying conditions, ranging from minor issues to serious medical emergencies. This article synthesizes research findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential causes and implications of chest pain associated with coughing.
Common Causes of Chest Pain While Coughing
Rib Fractures Induced by Coughing
One of the notable causes of chest pain while coughing is rib fractures. Violent or prolonged coughing can lead to stress fractures in the ribs, which may not be immediately visible on standard radiographs. Advanced imaging techniques like bone scintigraphy and helical CT scans are often required to diagnose these fractures accurately 678. Studies have shown that rib fractures can occur in patients of all ages and are often located in the middle and lower ribs 8. These fractures can cause significant pain and may be underdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary examinations and concerns 7.
Pneumomediastinum and Pneumothorax
Excessive coughing can also result in pneumomediastinum (air in the mediastinum) and pneumothorax (collapsed lung), conditions that can cause severe chest pain. For instance, a case study of a young male revealed that excessive coughing led to pneumomediastinum and bilateral pneumothoraces, which required medical intervention and conservative treatment 3. These conditions are serious and necessitate prompt medical attention to prevent further complications.
Other Medical Conditions Associated with Cough-Induced Chest Pain
Lung Herniation
Severe coughing can sometimes cause lung herniation, where lung tissue protrudes through an intercostal space. This condition was observed in a 67-year-old man who experienced chest pain after an episode of severe coughing. Imaging confirmed the presence of lung herniation, highlighting the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients with similar symptoms 5.
Post-Surgical Pain
Patients who have undergone thoracic surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, may experience chest pain during deep breathing and coughing exercises. Research indicates that cold application to the incision area can significantly reduce pain in these patients, facilitating better postoperative recovery 1.
Diagnostic and Management Strategies
Imaging Techniques
Accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause of chest pain while coughing often requires advanced imaging techniques. While standard radiographs may not always reveal rib fractures or other complications, bone scintigraphy and helical CT scans can provide detailed insights, enabling appropriate treatment 710.
Conservative and Medical Treatments
Management of cough-induced chest pain varies depending on the underlying cause. For rib fractures, conservative treatments such as pain management and rest are typically recommended. In cases of pneumomediastinum or pneumothorax, medical interventions may include supplemental oxygen and, in severe cases, surgical procedures 3. Cold application has been shown to be effective in reducing post-surgical chest pain, improving patient comfort and recovery 1.
Conclusion
Chest pain while coughing can result from various conditions, including rib fractures, pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and lung herniation. Accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging and appropriate management strategies are crucial for effective treatment. Understanding these potential causes can help healthcare providers offer better care and improve patient outcomes.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Effect of Cold Application on Chest Incision Pain Due to Deep Breathing and Cough Exercises.
Cold application after coronary artery bypass graft surgery significantly reduces chest incision pain due to deep breathing and cough exercises.
RCTYoung male with coughing and chest pain
A 20-year-old male with coughing and chest pain was diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 and treated conservatively, requiring no chest tube thoracostomies or antibiotics.
Case Report
Rigorous JournalImages in clinical medicine. Lung herniation with coughing.
A 67-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department with pain in the left side of the chest that had begun 10 days earlier after an episode of severe coughing. Computed tomography of the chest revealed lung herniation through a left lower intercostal space laterally.
Case ReportRigorous JournalCough fracture of the ribs.
Cough fractures of the ribs may be underdiagnosed and should be considered in patients with acute chest pain following coughing or sneezing.
Case ReportRib fractures induced by coughing: an unusual cause of acute chest pain.
Cough-induced rib fractures can be accurately identified using helical CT, avoiding unnecessary concerns and examinations.
Case ReportCough-induced rib fractures
Cough-induced rib fractures occur in all age groups and are often found in the lower and middle ribs, making rib radiography useful for diagnosis.
A 52-Year-Old Man With an 11-Month History of Fever, Cough, Chest Pain, Pleural Effusion, and Left Lung Atelectasis.
The 52-year-old man's symptoms were linked to bamboo rat meat consumption, and he was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory changes in his bronchi.
Case Report