Have Had Cough And Cold And Having Pain In Rib Cage. Suggest?

Posted on Mon, 23 Sep 2013

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

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 Answered on

Tue, 15 Oct 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,

I've had a cough cold for about a month now. For the past two days when I cough I experience pain on the left side of my rib cage. Any clues

Answered by Dr. Vasudha (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Needs evaluation for rib cage,lung involvement.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
The pain in rib cage increased with coughing indicates attention. It can be due to various causes. The possibilities I think in your case seem to be
- A long standing viral infection with excessive coughing due to over exertion of chest muscles.
-Inflammation of the costochondral junctions of ribs which hurts on coughing
- Allergic cough leading to Eosinophillia, dry cough & chest pain (like you have) increased after coughing.
-Involvement of lung tissue, the pleural covering due to infections. May turn out to be Pneumonia, bronchitis, Tuberculosis.
The above possibilities ask for investigations like Complete Blood count, x XXXXXXX chest, some times sputum test & consultation a chest physician. He will examine & evaluate your investigation reports & advice you accordingly.
Till then, drink plenty of water (preferably hot). Steam inhalation will give some relief.
I hope the answer satisfies you. I will be happy to assist in case you need further information.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E