Why Do I Experience Back Pain While Breathing?
Back pain is a common issue with a variety of potential causes. Breathing while experiencing back pain is a symptom that could be cause for concern. This type of pain can range from mild to severe and can be frightening if the cause is unknown.
In this article, we will discuss the potential causes of back pain while breathing, as well as treatment options and pain relief techniques. Notably, if you experience back pain when you breathe, you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Breathing-Related Back Pain?
There are numerous reasons why breathing may cause back pain. Among the most prevalent causes are:
Muscle strain: If you have been engaging in lifting, carrying, or twisting activities, you may have strained the muscles in your back. This can cause discomfort when breathing, particularly if the strain is severe.
Degenerative disc disease: Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the vertebral discs degenerate or deteriorate. As the discs lose elasticity, breathing may become painful, particularly if the degeneration is advanced.
Vertebral fractures: Vertebral fractures are breaks in the vertebrae of the spine. This can be the result of a fall, car accident, or other trauma. When you breathe, vertebral fractures can cause back pain, particularly if the fracture is in a weight-bearing portion of the spine.
Why Do I Feel Back Pain When I Breathe
Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism is a blockage within one of the pulmonary arteries. It can be caused by a blood clot that has traveled from your leg. Pulmonary embolisms can result in chest pain, difficulty breathing, and radiating back pain.
Pneumonia: Pneumonia is a lung infection that can lead to inflammation and fluid accumulation. This can make it difficult to breathe and cause you to experience back pain.
Gall stones: The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that can cause problems. The gallbladder stores bile, which is produced by the liver and aids in fat digestion. If you have a problem with your gallbladder, such as gallstones or an infection, you may experience upper back pain when you breathe.
Kidney problems: Problems with the kidneys Your kidneys are located in your lower back and are responsible for removing waste from your blood. Breathing may cause back pain if you have a kidney infection or kidney stones.
Pregnancy: The body undergoes numerous changes during pregnancy, including an increase in weight and a shift in the center of gravity. These changes may strain your back muscles, causing discomfort when you breathe.
Anxiety and stress: Anxiety and stress can cause muscle tension and tightness, which can result in back pain. The tension in your muscles may be exacerbated by the expansion of your chest and ribcage when you breathe.
It is essential to see a doctor if you experience back pain when you breathe, as this could indicate a serious underlying condition. Your doctor will be able to examine you and conduct tests to determine the source of your pain and recommend the most effective treatment. Medications, physical therapy, or surgery may be used to treat pain, depending on the underlying cause.
What Causes Back Pain When Breathing
RESOURCES
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What Can Be Done To Relieve Pain?
When breathing, there are a few things you can do to alleviate back pain:
Utilize nonprescription pain medications: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Apply heat or cold: A heating pad or hot water bottle can help relax your back muscles, while an ice pack can reduce inflammation.
Good posture: Good posture can help alleviate back pain if it is maintained. Try to maintain relaxed shoulders and avoid slouching when sitting or standing.
Try gentle stretches: Gentle stretches, such as the cobra and cat-cow poses, can loosen tight muscles and increase flexibility.
Get sufficient rest: Back pain can be alleviated by resting and taking breaks from activities that may be causing strain on the back.
Relaxation techniques: Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to alleviate muscle tension and back pain.
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Key Takeaways
In conclusion, there are a variety of reasons why you may experience back pain when you breathe. It is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of your pain, which could range from muscle strain to serious medical conditions such as pulmonary embolism and kidney problems.
Although over-the-counter pain medications and heat or cold therapy may provide temporary relief, it is essential to address the underlying cause of the pain for long-term relief.
If you experience back pain when you breathe, seek medical attention immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
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