Chest Pain Near Armpit When Coughing: Is It a Muscle Strain or Fracture? - Orthopedics

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Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing pain near your armpit when you cough, which has raised concerns about whether it could be a muscle strain or a fracture. Given the context of your recent illness and the severity of your cough, it is quite common for individuals to experience muscle strain due to excessive coughing. This is particularly true if you have been coughing forcefully or frequently, as the muscles around the rib cage can become fatigued and strained, leading to localized pain.

The fact that you only feel pain when coughing and that it is not present when you are at rest is a strong indicator that it is likely a muscle strain rather than a fracture. Muscle strains can occur when the muscles are overstretched or overworked, which is common during episodes of severe coughing. Additionally, the pain you describe as "刺痛" (sharp pain) during coughing aligns with the typical presentation of a muscle strain, especially in the intercostal muscles (the muscles between your ribs) or the pectoral muscles.

Regarding your concern about a possible rib fracture, it is important to note that rib fractures typically present with more persistent pain, especially with movement, deep breathing, or even light pressure on the area. Since you mentioned that you do not experience pain when at rest and only feel discomfort when you cough, it is less likely that you have a fracture. However, if you have a history of breast cancer and are feeling anxious about your health, it is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for peace of mind. They may suggest imaging studies like an X-ray if they feel it is warranted based on your symptoms and medical history.

As for recovery from a muscle strain, the healing time can vary depending on the severity of the strain. Generally, mild to moderate muscle strains can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal. During this time, it is advisable to rest the affected area, apply ice to reduce inflammation, and consider over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, unless contraindicated. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may also be beneficial once the acute pain subsides, but it is essential to avoid any activities that exacerbate the pain.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they are more indicative of a muscle strain rather than a fracture. However, if your pain worsens, if you develop new symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fever, or if the pain persists beyond a couple of weeks, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation. Always trust your instincts regarding your health, especially with your medical history, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance and guidance.