Elbow pain when coughing can be an unsettling symptom. This discomfort is often linked to biomechanical responses within the body. Understanding the potential reasons can help individuals recognize when it might be a temporary issue or when it warrants medical evaluation.
How Coughing Affects the Elbow
Coughing is a forceful respiratory action involving a rapid increase in pressure within the abdomen and chest. This sudden pressure causes widespread muscle contraction throughout the torso, neck, and upper limbs. Repeated or forceful coughing can lead to overuse injuries or muscle fatigue in these areas. This muscular engagement transmits forces down the kinetic chain to the elbow, explaining how a cough can cause localized pain.
Common Explanations for Elbow Pain During Coughing
Nerve Irritation/Compression
Nerve irritation or compression is a common reason for arm pain when coughing. The ulnar nerve, often called the “funny bone” nerve, passes through a narrow space on the inside of the elbow called the cubital tunnel. When compressed or irritated (cubital tunnel syndrome), it can cause pain, numbness, or tingling from the elbow down to the ring and little fingers. The sudden increase in pressure and muscle tension during a cough can temporarily exacerbate an irritated ulnar nerve, leading to sharp or radiating pain.
The radial nerve can also be affected. This nerve controls muscles that straighten the wrist and fingers and provides sensation to the back of the hand. Compression of the radial nerve (radial tunnel syndrome) typically causes a dull, aching pain on the outside of the elbow and forearm. Forceful movements during coughing could briefly irritate this nerve, causing a fleeting increase in pain.
Muscle Strain/Tendonitis
Sudden, forceful muscle contractions from coughing can strain muscles in the arm, shoulder, or neck, causing pain in the elbow. Overuse or repetitive movements can lead to conditions like tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis). Tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow causes pain on the inside.
These conditions involve inflammation or tiny tears in the tendons connecting forearm muscles to the elbow. The strong muscular contractions and pressure changes during coughing can aggravate these compromised tendons, intensifying the pain. Chronic coughing, often seen with respiratory conditions, can contribute to muscle fatigue and overuse injuries.
Referred Pain
Pain felt in the elbow when coughing can sometimes originate from a different part of the body, a phenomenon known as referred pain. Issues in the neck or shoulder, such as a herniated disc or nerve compression in the cervical spine, can cause pain that radiates down the arm to the elbow. The motion of coughing can increase pressure on these spinal nerves, making the referred pain more noticeable. In some instances, even conditions affecting the chest, such as severe coughing fits from bronchitis or other respiratory infections, can manifest as pain in the shoulder and arm, which might be perceived in the elbow.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While elbow pain when coughing is often benign, certain signs indicate the need for medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists or worsens despite self-care, or if it occurs even when not coughing.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if the pain is severe and accompanied by an obvious deformity of the elbow, significant swelling or bruising around the joint, or a snapping sound at the time of injury. Other concerning symptoms include persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, which may suggest nerve involvement.
If the elbow pain is accompanied by fever, chills, or worsening redness and warmth around the joint, it could indicate an infection. Any sudden arm pain, particularly if it occurs with chest pressure, heaviness, or shortness of breath, warrants emergency medical care as it could signal a heart-related issue.
Managing Discomfort
For temporary relief of elbow pain when coughing, several comfort measures can be employed:
- Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain to allow recovery.
- Ice and Heat: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, several times a day, to reduce inflammation. Some find relief with heat therapy.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage discomfort and reduce inflammation. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking new medications.
- Gentle Stretching and Exercise: If pain allows, light exercises for the forearm and wrist can improve mobility and strength.
- Bracing: Wearing a brace or compression sleeve may provide support and reduce strain on affected muscles and tendons.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, consult a healthcare professional.