What Could Cause Right Side Chest Pain When Breathing?

When you feel pain on the right side of your chest while taking a deep breath, it may be coming from several different issues. One common cause is pleuritis (or pleurisy), which is inflammation of the thin lining around the lungs. This inflammation can result from infections like pneumonia. Blood clots in the blood vessels of the lungs, called pulmonary emboli, can also cause pain with breathing. Another possibility is a musculoskeletal problem, where the muscles or cartilage on the chest wall become strained or inflamed. This type of pain, sometimes seen with costochondritis, tends to worsen with movement or deep breathing. Rarely, other causes such as minor rib injuries or even soft tissue issues can contribute. Because pain during breathing can have several causes—from lung inflammation to muscle strain—it is important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor. They can evaluate your condition, perform any necessary tests, and determine the right treatment to help relieve your pain.