4 Possible Causes of Stabbing Pain When Breathing

It might come about suddenly. You’re going about your day as usual when suddenly, each breath comes with a sharp, stabbing pain.

Breathing is something we do without thinking, so when it suddenly becomes painful, it’s both alarming and confusing. In many cases, it’s nothing serious, but sometimes, it’s a symptom that demands immediate attention. Pain like this can be a wake-up call, so it’s crucial to pay close attention to your body.

If you feel a sharp pain when breathing, it’s best to nip it in the bud by seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis. This article will discuss 4 possible causes of stabbing pain when breathing.

How Does Chest Pain Feel?

Needle-like pain in the chest that comes and goes can take many different forms. It may be chronic or sudden, dull or sharp, or it might feel like burning. Often, the pain will radiate beyond the chest region. The cause mainly determines how you feel it.

If you have sudden, acute pain, get medical attention right away. For duller or milder pain, visiting a physician is still advised.

Providing the doctor with a detailed account of your symptoms is crucial since, in most cases, you will also have other symptoms that will aid in diagnosing the underlying cause of your pain.

**Ever Wonder What Could Cause This Stabbing Pain in Your Chest? 4

Reasons**

Sudden sharp pain under the right rib cage when breathing can be brief but intense. It’s similar to the sensation of a stabbing or an electric shock. Here are a few common causes of this type of chest pain:

1. Pulmonary Embolism

This condition results from an unexpected obstruction of the lung artery caused by a blood clot from another part of the bloodstream. According to AHA Journals, many pulmonary embolisms occur due to blood clots within the deep veins of the legs.

A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition; large clots can block oxygen flow in the body. Symptoms may include:

• Rapid breathing
• Hemoptysis
• Fever
• Sudden chest pain
• Increased heartbeat
• Deep or shallow breathing
• Headache, vision changes, and dizziness

Research shows that crampy pain in your legs might indicate deep venous thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to a pulmonary embolism. If you experience any of these signs, consult your doctor immediately!

2. Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax is an air leak through the chest wall cavity from the lungs, also known as a “collapsed lung.” This disorder can cause painful air bubbles to seep into the epidermal layers of the upper chest, neck, and back. Severe pneumothoraces can reduce blood pressure or even halt the heart.

It can occur spontaneously (especially in tall, skinny young males), from injury, or due to chronic lung ailments. Spontaneous pneumothoraces are more common in smokers.

The signs of pneumothorax vary with the extent of lung collapse:

• Unexpected pleuritic chest pain, often evolving into a constant, unbearable pain that may extend to the upper arm or back.
• Breathlessness, ranging from slight to severe
• An accelerated heart rate

A significant pneumothorax can turn deadly quickly. Usually, a needle or tube is used to remove the collected air in the chest during treatment.

Treatment may not be necessary for minor air leaks, but monitoring is required to ensure the situation doesn’t worsen. If you suspect a collapsed lung, see your doctor immediately.

3. Chest Trauma

Chest trauma may result from sports, accidents, or surgical procedures. Those who suffer from chest trauma experience varying degrees of severity, from a broken rib to cardiac damage.

Breathing in might cause acute pain due to chest damage. Additional signs of chest injuries could include:

• Breathlessness
• Coughing up blood
• Bruises on the upper body
• Pain spreading to the back or neck

Individuals with chest injuries should seek immediate medical attention. Doctors will determine the best course of action based on the origin and severity of the trauma.

4. Other Symptoms To Look Out For!

While many sources of pleuritic pain don’t present long-term health risks, unexplained pain while breathing requires quick medical assistance.

If you suddenly experience stabbing pain, seek medical attention immediately. Be alert if chest pain accompanies dyspnea or any of the following symptoms:

• A cough lasting more than a week
• Coughing up blood
• Fever and cough together
• Intense chest pains
• Confusion
• Unusually dry or sweaty, pale skin

Conclusion

If you have experienced these 4 possible causes of stabbing pain when breathing , take it seriously. Otherwise, it may be harmful to your health.

If someone has severe pain when inhaling, they should consult a medical professional, who will likely perform an examination to determine the source. Once verified, the medical professional can establish an appropriate treatment plan.