Chest Pain: Could It Be a Post-Cold Issue?

Chest muscle pain, follow-up questions, thank you?

Hello, doctor, thank you for your response.
About a month ago, I had a health check-up and an X-ray was taken; the doctor said there were no abnormalities.
During my last visit for a cold, another doctor mentioned that my lungs sounded fine with the stethoscope, and I only had a slightly red throat from the cold.
Could this situation possibly be a result of lingering effects from the cold? The doctor mentioned that my bronchi are somewhat weak, so it's better for me to wear a mask as much as possible.
However, sometimes when I wear a mask for too long, I feel a bit of difficulty breathing.
Today, I feel a bit uncomfortable again; yesterday, I noticed a difference when I slept on my other side.
So, does the doctor think this is more related to muscle or bone issues? Does that mean I can use the medication prescribed by the orthopedic department for the swelling in my hand? I will make sure to rest more, and if I feel unwell, I will ask the family medicine doctor during my next visit.
The thought of pleurisy sounds quite frightening...
I hope I won't need to be hospitalized.
😭 Thank you, doctor, for your attentive response!

Mik, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/26

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, the main concern should be the chest pain.
Given your previous history of a cold, it is likely that you may be experiencing pleuritis or possibly a muscle strain.
The topical anti-inflammatory medication you mentioned can be used, and typically, resting for 1-2 weeks should lead to recovery.
If the pain persists, then medical attention would be necessary.
Based on your current condition, hospitalization should not be required.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/10/26

More Info

Chest pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial, especially following a recent respiratory illness like a cold. Based on your description, it seems that you have undergone a thorough evaluation, including an X-ray and a physical examination, which did not reveal any significant abnormalities. This is reassuring, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of lingering effects from your recent cold.

Post-viral syndromes, including lingering chest discomfort, can occur after respiratory infections. These symptoms may arise from several factors, including inflammation of the airways, muscle strain from coughing, or even anxiety related to the illness. Given that you mentioned your bronchial tubes are weaker, it is possible that your body is still recovering from the viral infection, leading to some residual symptoms like chest discomfort.

Muscle strain is another common cause of chest pain, particularly if you have been coughing frequently or sleeping in an awkward position. The muscles in your chest and back can become strained, leading to discomfort that may mimic more serious conditions. If you noticed that changing your sleeping position alleviated some discomfort, this further supports the idea that muscular issues may be contributing to your symptoms.

Regarding your concerns about pleurisy (inflammation of the lining around the lungs), it is understandable to be worried, especially since it can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing. However, given that your previous evaluations did not indicate any significant issues, it seems less likely that this is the cause of your current discomfort. Nonetheless, if you experience any new symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent pain, or fever, it would be prudent to seek medical attention promptly.

In terms of management, it is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms. If you find that over-the-counter pain relief or topical treatments prescribed for muscle pain help alleviate your discomfort, that could indicate a muscular origin. Additionally, practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as wearing a mask in crowded places, can help protect your bronchial health, especially if you are prone to respiratory infections.

Rest is crucial for recovery, and if you feel that your symptoms are not improving or are worsening, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider further evaluations or adjustments to your treatment plan based on your ongoing symptoms.

In summary, while it is possible that your chest pain is related to residual effects from your recent cold, muscle strain is also a likely contributor. Continue to monitor your symptoms, practice good respiratory health, and do not hesitate to seek further medical advice if your discomfort persists or worsens. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and staying proactive about your symptoms is the best approach.

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