My Chest Burns When I Cough | Should I Be Worried?

Have you ever coughed so hard and loud that it made your entire chest burn? If so, don’t worry. That’s nothing to be concerned about. Usually, this burning feeling occurs due to an infection. So when it clears up, all other irritating factors vanish too. However, there are chances that the sensation can remain. But if your chest burns when you cough after the infection has healed, it could be a cause for major concern.Nonetheless, we’re here to tell you all about the causes and treatment plans. This way, you’ll be well prepared if ever met with such an intense feeling.

My Chest Burns When I Cough, Is It Normal?

A simple burn in your chest when you cough isn’t much to stress about. That is to say, during flu season, it’s completely normal. Sometimes it’s merely your throat getting scratched by the excessive coughing. Other times, it could be a symptom of an illness itself.However, knowing that this feeling is 100% normal and nothing to be scared about is what matters most. Plus, it certainly is not a heart attack.

Causes

Mentioned below are some of the common causes related to a burning chest and coughing.

1. AsthmaDuring an asthma attack, you might experience severe coughing and breathing problems. As a side effect, these labored acts could cause an inflammation of your airways, making them burn on the inside.
2. BronchitisWhen your bronchial tubes are inflamed and swollen, it leads to Bronchitis. These tubes mainly connect your throat to the lungs, so when they’re constricted, it could become quite difficult to breathe. This is what ultimately causes your chest to burn and feel intense pressure within.
3. Muscle ExhaustionYou may not know this, but when you cough, many of your body’s muscles come into play. So, if you’ve been racked with coughs, your chest, back, and abdomen muscles are likely to get strained or exhausted.
4. PleurisyThe inflammation of your pleural tissue is called Pleurisy. This tissue covers the outside of your lungs, along with the chest walls. When it’s inflamed, however, fluid can develop between its layers. It is essentially this, then, which can lead to chest-burning coughs.
5. PneumoniaLabeled as a dangerous lung infection, pneumonia occurs after a cold and can leave your lungs in an extremely vulnerable condition. With a weak immune system, it can even be fatal. Nonetheless, coughing during pneumonia can be exceptionally tough to deal with.
6. Pulmonary Disease (COPD)Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a compilation of various chronic diseases related to the lungs, chest, and throat. This can cause swollen or obstructed airways that seemingly get worse over time, eventually leading to chest burns.
7. Lung CancerAlthough rare, persistent chest pain can be a sign of lung cancer, especially if the burning sensation is not followed by other cold or flu symptoms. If the feeling remains, it’s best to get it checked out as soon as you can.

Treatment Options

When seeking treatment plans, it’s best to consult a medical professional. Chances are, if you suffer from any of the illnesses mentioned above, your doctor will recommend the following treatments:

• OTC Pain Relief Medication
• Taking Steam to Loosen the Mucus in your Chest
• Drinking Warm or Hot Drinks
• Taking the Time to Rest
• Avoid Drinking and Smoking
• Wearing a Mask to Minimize Pollution Intake
• Using a Humidifier When Sleeping
• Antibiotics
• Nebulization or Inhaler Recommendation

What’s The Takeaway?

In the end, if you’ve ever complained, ‘my chest burns when I cough,’ don’t worry. More likely than not, it’s just passing flu or a harmless throat condition. Either way, it’s better to visit a medical professional to get it checked out, especially if your chest continues to burn. Reach out to NorthWest Cardiovascular Clinic by dialing (281) 807-5253 for more information.