Severe Pain in the Back: Difficulty Breathing and Movement Issues

Pain in the right rear side of the body!! Difficulty breathing?

I have severe pain in my back, around the area behind my ribs.
It's hard to breathe, and even slight movements cause sharp pain, almost like something is stabbing me.
Even standing up straight hurts.
What could be causing this, and which specialist should I see?

Emma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/21

Dr. Xie Yonghui reply Internal Medicine

Based on the symptoms described in your letter, it is recommended that you first consult an orthopedic specialist.
If you also experience painful urination, frequent urination, or difficulty urinating, you should see a urologist.

Reply Date: 2006/03/21

More Info

Severe pain in the back, especially around the rib area, accompanied by difficulty breathing and movement issues, can be concerning and warrants immediate medical attention. The symptoms you describe could be indicative of several potential conditions, ranging from musculoskeletal issues to more serious underlying health problems.

Firstly, it is essential to consider the possibility of musculoskeletal pain. This type of pain can arise from muscle strain, ligament sprains, or even rib injuries. Activities that involve heavy lifting, sudden movements, or poor posture can lead to such injuries. In these cases, the pain may worsen with movement or deep breathing, and you might feel a sharp or stabbing sensation in the affected area.

However, given that you are experiencing difficulty breathing, it is crucial to rule out any respiratory issues. Conditions such as pneumonia, pleuritis (inflammation of the lining of the lungs), or even a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs) can present with back pain and breathing difficulties. These conditions can be serious and require prompt medical evaluation.

Another consideration is the possibility of referred pain from internal organs. For instance, issues with the heart, such as angina or a heart attack, can sometimes manifest as back pain, particularly in the upper back. Similarly, gastrointestinal problems, such as gallbladder disease or pancreatitis, can also cause pain that radiates to the back.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek care from a healthcare professional. You should consider visiting a primary care physician or an urgent care center initially. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, imaging studies (like X-rays or CT scans), and possibly blood tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

If the pain is severe and accompanied by other alarming symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, you should seek emergency medical care immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires urgent intervention.

In summary, while back pain and difficulty breathing can stem from various causes, it is essential to approach this situation with caution. Seeking medical attention promptly will help ensure that any serious conditions are ruled out and that you receive appropriate treatment for your symptoms. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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