What Should I Do If My Chest Hurts When I Breathe?

When you experience chest pain while breathing, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs medical evaluation. First, note if the pain is sharp, constant, or if it worsens when you take a deep breath or cough. Sometimes, chest pain with breathing could be due to lung conditions like pleurisy, where the lining of your lungs is inflamed, or even pneumonia. It could also be related to musculoskeletal problems such as a strained muscle or costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone. If the pain is severe, if you feel short of breath, have a high fever, experience dizziness, or if the pain came on suddenly and feels very serious, you should call 911 or go to an emergency room right away. If the pain is mild or has been ongoing, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They will ask questions, perform an exam, and may require tests like an X-ray or blood work to determine the cause and help you feel better safely.