Respiratory problems influence the lives of many people. Infections, diseases, trauma and other impacts may cause the chest to hurt when we cough. The lungs do not have the luxury of taking a break, as we must breath every minute of every day. Speak with a medical professional if you have painful or other unpleasant sensations while coughing or breathing. Monitor all of your symptoms so that you can easily tell your doctor what is going on and get help.

Why Does My Chest Hurts When I Cough?

There are a wide variety of potential reasons for chest pain when coughing. Treatments are also available, but it is always advisable to speak with a medical professional when experiencing these sensations. Prevention techniques work in many situations. Be sure to avoid contagious diseases, as they will lead to chest pain and other medical complications.

Potential Causes

1. Influenza

Influenza, of the flu, is a viral infection that commonly causes chest pain. Fevers, congestion, headaches, stomach aches, vomiting, weakness, fatigue and other flu symptoms may be present. People who believe that they may be experiencing the flu should immediately speak with a medical professional. It is too late to get a vaccine, but symptoms may be managed with proper treatment.

2. Common Cold

The common cold is another viral infection that may be causing the chest to hurt when someone coughs. This is often associated with sneezing and tiredness. Serious colds may express flu-like symptoms. There is no treatment for the cold, so over the counter medication may be beneficial to manage symptoms. Avoid other people to prevent spreading the virus.

3. Tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a bacterium which causes tuberculosis. Weight loss, fatigue, fever, pain, and other unpleasant symptoms are expressed with tuberculosis. This may be a reason for chest pain when coughing. This infection is highly contagious, so be certain to remain home from work or school. Medical treatment should be immediately sought for those who believe that they may have tuberculosis.

4. Bronchitis

Bacteria or viruses may infect the bronchial tubes of the lungs. Coughing may be a symptom of restricted airways, which may lead to painful sensations when coughing. Bronchitis often develops after an untreated infection. Asthma and other respiratory complications may lead to bronchitis due to long term inflammation of the lungs. Speak with a medical professional if it is possible that you are infected with bronchitis.

5. Asthma

A chronic lung disease that influences the respiratory system, asthma causes the lungs to become inflamed. This is not due to a viral or bacterial infection. It can affect people of every age. It is often induced by allergies and smoke. Asthmatic people should avoid cigarettes. Wheezing and coughing are symptoms of asthma.

6. Emphysema

When the alveoli of the lungs become inflamed, often due to tobacco abuse or other pollutants, emphysema causes coughing and other symptoms. The smoker’s cough is a common cause for painful feelings after coughing. The alveoli are responsible for interchanging oxygen from the respiratory system with carbon dioxide from the circulatory system. People who use tobacco should immediately and permanently stop the consumption of the drug.

7. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is due to a build up of fluid in the lungs. Other symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, sweating, fever, shaking, discomfort, coughing, headaches and even death. Feelings of liquid in the lungs is a sign of pneumonia. If there is a possibility that someone has pneumonia, then they should immediately seek medical attention. Untreated pneumonia could lead to death.

8. Coughing Fits

Excessive coughing will likely lead to pain in the chest. This may be caused by a wide variety of factors. People who cough throughout the day or have intense coughing fits should speak with a medical professional. Diagnosis and treatments are available. Untreated coughing may lead to permanent damage in the respiratory system. The pain may be experienced in the sides of the chest, the center of the chest, the throat or other locations.

9. Acid Reflux

When stomach acid enters the esophagus, it often causes unpleasant sensations. This may be described as heart burn. Some people wake up in the morning with burning sensations in their throat. This condition may lead to painful sensations when coughing. Acid reflux is treatable, so it would be beneficial to speak with a medical professional for those who are experiencing symptoms. If left untreated, acid reflux may cause permanent problems that may require surgery to repair.

10. Injuries

Injuries and trauma may cause difficult and painful breathing. This may lead to inflammation or wounds that cause painful sensations. Burning, congestion and coughing may be symptoms of previous injuries. Those that have experienced a major injury to the chest should speak with a medical professional. Serious medical concerns that are left untreated will lead to difficulties in the future.

Beneficial Treatments

1. Medical Attention

Anytime that a person experiences painful sensations in their chest, they should seek medical attention. If they are coughing and have these symptoms, then they have additional reasons to go to the hospital. There is no reason, not even financial reasons, that should prevent someone from caring for their body. Lung problems may seem manageable, but they can easily lead to death. Many people die each year to to respiratory complications. Parents should never assume that their children will be fine without speaking with a medical professional.

2. Lifestyle Modifications

It is important to avoid those who may have contagious diseases. Staying out in the cold and rain during inclement weather may lead to respiratory complications. Smoking and poor behaviors are common factors in medical problems. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to support the immune system and general health. Drink plenty of fluids, as the body needs an abundance of water to survive. Call in sick from work and school to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.