A persistent or forceful cough can lead to a pulled chest muscle, or muscle strain. This occurs when chest wall muscles are overstretched or torn from repetitive, intense coughing contractions. While not usually a serious medical emergency, a strained chest muscle causes discomfort and pain.
How Coughing Strains Chest Muscles
Coughing involves several muscle groups, primarily in the chest and abdomen. The intercostal muscles, located between the ribs, are particularly involved as they help expand and contract the rib cage during breathing. Intense or repeated coughing causes these muscles to undergo rapid and powerful contractions.
This sudden and forceful movement can overstretch muscle fibers, leading to microscopic tears or, in more severe cases, a partial or complete rupture. The pectoralis muscles and abdominal muscles, which assist in the expulsive force of a cough, can also strain from this repetitive stress. Persistent coughing places significant mechanical stress on these tissues, making them susceptible to injury.
Recognizing a Chest Muscle Strain
Identifying a chest muscle strain from coughing involves specific symptoms. The most common sign is localized chest pain, ranging from sharp to a dull ache. This pain worsens with movements that engage affected muscles, such as deep breathing, sneezing, laughing, or further coughing.
Tenderness to the touch is another indicator. Some individuals may also experience muscle spasms, tightness or stiffness in the chest, and visible bruising or swelling. The discomfort might also extend to the upper back or cause difficulty moving the chest or arm.
Managing a Pulled Chest Muscle
Managing a mild pulled chest muscle at home focuses on reducing pain and promoting healing. Rest is important, meaning avoiding activities that aggravate pain, especially strenuous chest muscle use. Apply ice to the injured area for 15-20 minutes several times daily to reduce swelling and pain, particularly in the initial 24 to 48 hours. After this, warm compresses or heat therapy can help relax muscles and alleviate discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, help manage pain and inflammation. If coughing is the cause, cough medicine might reduce further muscle strain. Gentle stretching exercises, if pain allows, can be gradually introduced to maintain flexibility once soreness subsides.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most chest muscle strains from coughing are not serious, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if chest pain is severe, does not improve with home care, or worsens. Any chest pain accompanied by difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or wheezing requires immediate medical consultation.
Other concerning signs include pain radiating to the arm, jaw, neck, or back, pressure or tightness in the chest, dizziness, fainting, or excessive sweating, as these could indicate a more serious underlying condition. Additionally, if you cough up blood, develop a fever and chills, or experience a “popping” sound when the injury occurs, consult a healthcare provider promptly.