What causes chest pain during breathing?

Chest pain during breathing may be caused by factors such as chest muscle injury, side stitch (intercostal muscle spasm), pleurisy, pleural effusion, or gastroesophageal reflux. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Chest muscle injury: Overexertion during exercise or falling may lead to injury of the chest muscles or soft tissues. Movement of the thoracic cage during respiration may pull on the injured area, causing pain. Patients are advised to rest adequately and apply heat therapy to alleviate the discomfort.

2. Side stitch (exercise-related transient abdominal pain): This is usually caused by improper breathing or inadequate warm-up before physical activity. During breathing, spasms in the diaphragm or intercostal muscles may occur, leading to chest pain. The pain is generally brief. Patients should avoid excessive exercise and practice deep breathing regularly.

3. Pleurisy: This may be associated with bacterial or viral infections. Inflammation can make the pleural surfaces rough, causing friction between the pleural layers during breathing, which may result in pain. Symptoms such as fever and cough may also accompany it. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Aspirin Tablets, and Rifampicin Capsules for treatment.

4. Pleural effusion: This may result from trauma, tumors, or other conditions. Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity may exert pressure on the pleura, commonly causing chest pain during breathing, along with symptoms like low-grade fever and sputum production. Patients should use medications such as Isoniazid Tablets, Ceftriaxone Sodium for Injection, and Furosemide Tablets under medical supervision to relieve symptoms.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux: This condition is often triggered by factors such as obesity or alcohol consumption. It causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, irritating the lining. Common symptoms include chest pain, heartburn, and a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. Patients are advised to take medications such as Cisapride Tablets, Esomeprazole Magnesium Enteric-coated Tablets, and Rabeprazole Sodium Enteric-coated Tablets as directed by their physician.

In daily life, it is recommended to consume more vitamin-rich fruits such as oranges, grapes, and pomegranates. Avoid vigorous exercise immediately after meals to reduce the likelihood of experiencing these symptoms.