What causes pain on the chest below the pectoral muscle?
Patient: My husband started feeling pain in the right side of his chest right below is pectoral muscle. He doesn't recall doing anything that could have caused a cracked or broken rib. It hurts him to take deep breaths, put pressure on the area, and when he lays down it hurts to sit up or turn to the side. And it got worse after he sneezed. There is a faint bruising, but doesn't look swollen. What could it be? Doctor: Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. By your history and description possibility of musculoskeletal pain is more in your husband's case. So ask him to avoid movements causing pain. Avoid bad postures in sleep. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. Start painkiller and muscle relaxant drugs. Application of warm water pad on affected areas is beneficial in such cases. Don't worry, he will mostly improve in 5-6 days. If not improving then get done chest x ray to rule out internal lung pathology. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your husband. Thanks.