Why does my back hurt when I breathe?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, the causes of back pain during breathing may include muscle strain, back muscle fatigue, pneumonia, angina pectoris, pleurisy, and others. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows: in daily life, pay attention to moderate exercise, such as walking and swimming, and avoid excessive exercise that may strain the muscles.
Generally, the causes of back pain during breathing may include muscle strain, back muscle fatigue, pneumonia, angina, pleurisy, etc. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
Muscle strain may be caused by intense exercise or overuse. During breathing, the movement of the thoracic cage may activate the back muscles, and the act of breathing might intensify the pain. Symptoms may include limited movement, muscle tension, or localized tenderness. Resting appropriately, avoiding strenuous exercise and deep breathing can help reduce the burden on the back muscles.
2. Back Muscle Fatigue
Prolonged poor posture or repetitive back movements may lead to back muscle fatigue. The affected muscles may experience increased pain during respiration due to the movement of the thoracic cage, possibly accompanied by backache, stiffness, or localized fatigue. Adjusting posture, avoiding prolonged static positions, and performing appropriate back stretching exercises can help relax the muscles.
3. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is usually caused by infections such as bacteria, viruses, or mycoplasma. When pneumonia involves the pleura, respiration may cause pleural friction and traction, leading to back pain, often accompanied by coughing, sputum production, fever, and other symptoms. Treatment may follow medical advice to use medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Ambroxol Hydrochloride Oral Solution, Ribavirin Tablets, etc.
4. Angina Pectoris
Angina may be related to factors such as strenuous exercise, emotional excitement, or cold weather. During an angina attack, the pain may radiate to the back. Pain signals may be transmitted via nerves to the back, potentially causing back pain upon breathing. Symptoms may also include shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cold sweats. Patients may take medications such as Aspirin Tablets, Nifedipine Tablets, Nitroglycerin Tablets, etc., under medical guidance.
5. Pleurisy
Pleurisy is typically caused by infection, autoimmune diseases, tumors, or other factors. Inflammatory stimulation may lead to pleural thickening and adhesions. During respiration, the two layers of pleura may rub against each other, causing back pain. Symptoms may include dyspnea, chest tightness, and coughing. Prompt medical attention is advised, including chest CT or X-ray examination for diagnosis. Treatment may follow medical advice to use medications such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Isoniazid Tablets, Aspirin Tablets, etc.
In daily life, attention should be paid to moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, to avoid excessive exercise that may strain muscles.
