My chest hurts when i cough
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Understanding Chest Pain When Coughing
Chest pain associated with coughing is a common symptom that can arise from various underlying conditions. This article synthesizes research findings to provide a comprehensive overview of potential causes and considerations for individuals experiencing this symptom.
Common Causes of Chest Pain When Coughing
Pleuritic and Positional Chest Pain
Pleuritic chest pain, which worsens with breathing or coughing, can be a result of excessive coughing. A case study of a 20-year-old male revealed that severe coughing led to pleuritic chest pain and pneumomediastinum, a condition where air is present in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity. This condition can be serious and requires medical attention.
Pneumothorax and Subcutaneous Emphysema
Severe coughing can also lead to pneumothorax, where air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This was observed in the same 20-year-old patient who developed bilateral pneumothoraces and subcutaneous emphysema, where air gets trapped under the skin. These conditions can cause significant chest pain and require prompt medical intervention.
Lung Herniation
Lung herniation, though rare, can occur due to severe coughing. A 67-year-old man experienced lung herniation through an intercostal space after a severe coughing episode, leading to chest pain. This condition involves the protrusion of lung tissue through the chest wall and can be diagnosed via imaging techniques like CT scans.
Rib Fracture
Violent coughing can sometimes result in rib fractures, which are a less common but notable cause of chest pain. A 34-year-old man experienced a rib fracture after a bout of severe coughing, which was confirmed through chest CT imaging. Rib fractures can cause sharp, localized chest pain that worsens with movement or coughing.
Additional Considerations
Infections and Inflammation
Infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis can cause chest pain when coughing due to inflammation of the airways and lung tissue. A 50-year-old man with severe spasmodic cough and chest pain was found to have significant lung inflammation and skin discoloration, indicating a severe underlying infection.
Management and Treatment
The management of chest pain when coughing depends on the underlying cause. For instance, pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax may require conservative treatment with oxygen therapy and monitoring, as seen in the young male patient. Rib fractures typically heal with rest and pain management, while infections may require antibiotics and supportive care .
Conclusion
Chest pain when coughing can stem from various conditions, ranging from minor issues to serious medical emergencies. Understanding the potential causes, such as pleuritic pain, pneumothorax, lung herniation, and rib fractures, is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. If you experience persistent or severe chest pain when coughing, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive proper care.
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