Back Pain While Coughing. Should I Be Concerned About This Symptom?

Posted on Sun, 13 Oct 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 13 Oct 2013 Answered on

Sat, 9 Nov 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I'm in the second or third day of a cold or sinus infection and I experience back pain when I cough. Should I be concerned about this symptom?

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Karanwal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Pain is due to spasm of back muscles

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

Thanks for your query.

There is no reason for you to be worried about the cough-induced pain in the back. It is apparently due to a 'catch' (spasm) of your back muscle(s) following constant coughing.

A short course of a combination of an NSAID, such as ibuprofen, along with paracetamol and clorzoxazone (a muscle relaxant) will relieve the muscle spasm.
Hot fomentation of the back too will help.

However, the precipitating cause, that is, cough needs to be controlled first, for early relief from spasm of the back muscles.

You may discuss the matter with your treating doctor, who will prescribe the drugs in effective doses.

Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further query, I will be happy to answer.

Have a speedy recovery and good health.

Regards,

Dr. Rakesh Karanwal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T