Coughing on the left side of the chest, with pain upon palpation?
I have a history of spontaneous pneumothorax, which occurred on the left side.
About five years ago, I underwent surgery to remove a portion of my lung lobe, and I have not had a recurrence since then.
I recently felt a slight itch in my throat, so I coughed lightly and noticed a dull pain about fifteen centimeters from my left armpit.
The pain is noticeable and localized, and it hurts when I press gently on it.
I do not feel any discomfort when taking deep breaths.
Since the pneumothorax, I have not exercised for about four years, not even running.
I have only recently started to gradually resume my exercise routine over the past year.
Just yesterday, I played badminton, and today I noticed muscle soreness in my right upper arm.
Could this be an intercostal muscle strain due to lack of exercise?
Lü, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/23
Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine
Based on your description, it seems that the pain is caused by coughing and lactic acid accumulation after exercise.
If there is subcutaneous emphysema, it may indicate a recurrence of pneumothorax.
It is advisable to consult an internal medicine or family medicine physician for differential diagnosis.
Thank you.
Reply Date: 2016/03/23
More Info
Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing pain in the left side of your chest, particularly around the area of your axilla (armpit), after a period of inactivity and a recent return to exercise. Given your history of spontaneous pneumothorax and lung surgery, it's understandable to be concerned about any new symptoms in your chest area.
Firstly, the pain you are experiencing could indeed be related to muscle strain, particularly if you have recently resumed physical activity after a long period of inactivity. When individuals return to exercise, especially after a significant break, the muscles, including the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs), may not be accustomed to the exertion, leading to soreness or strain. This is especially true if you have engaged in activities that involve sudden or intense movements, such as playing badminton, which can put stress on the upper body and chest muscles.
The fact that you feel a fixed point of pain that is exacerbated by pressure suggests that it may be musculoskeletal in nature. Muscle strains typically present with localized pain that can be aggravated by movement or palpation. Additionally, the absence of pain during deep breathing is a good sign, as it may indicate that the pain is not originating from the lungs or pleura (the lining of the lungs), which would typically cause discomfort during deep breaths.
However, given your medical history of spontaneous pneumothorax, it is crucial to remain vigilant. While the likelihood of a recurrence of pneumothorax is low, any new or unusual chest pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if it persists or worsens. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, a feeling of tightness in the chest, or any respiratory distress should prompt immediate medical attention.
In terms of management, if the pain is indeed due to muscle strain, rest, ice application, and over-the-counter pain relief medications (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) may help alleviate your discomfort. Gentle stretching and gradual reintroduction of physical activity can also be beneficial, but it is essential to listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain.
If the pain does not improve with conservative measures or if you experience any new symptoms, such as increased pain, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning signs, it would be wise to seek further evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray, to rule out any complications related to your previous pneumothorax or to assess for other potential issues.
In conclusion, while your symptoms may likely be related to muscle strain due to a lack of exercise, it is essential to monitor your condition closely and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Your history of spontaneous pneumothorax warrants a cautious approach to any new chest pain, ensuring that you receive appropriate care and reassurance.
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