What causes severe chest pain while coughing?
Patient: I'm a 30 year old male. I sneezed about 4 days ago and felt a pain in my upper left side, under my arm pit. The pain is still there and never got better. It bother me to lift my arm., and it really hurts when i cough. Last night it started to bruise and this morning got worse. Any suggestions? Doctor: Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, you are mostly having musculoskeletal pain because coughing can cause straining of intercostal muscles and if coughing is vigorous, this can cause chest pain. Another possibility is lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI). LRTI can cause pleurisy (inflammation of pleura). And this can cause chest pain on coughing and sneezing. So first get done chest x ray to rule out LRTI. If chest x ray is normal then no need to worry for LRTI. Musculoskeletal pain is more likely in your case. So avoid movements causing pain. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. Apply warm water pad on affected areas. Take painkiller and muscle relaxant drugs. Don't worry, you will be alright. But first get done chest x ray to rule LRTI. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.