<prompt> If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patients description.In the past week I have twice had pain around my diaphram. It is like I am being squeezed tight and it is really sore. Currently under investigation for a long term cough, shortness of breath. The cough is more like a permanent tickle in the throat and I have to keep coughing to get rid of it.  <response>: Dear patient here is a list of conditions that can cause pain around the diaphragmFracture of lower ribsCostochon Chat Doctor. In your case since there is associated labored breathing I suggest it could be asthma, cold, pneumoniabronchitis or pleurisy. Asthma: An allergic reaction which can lead to bouts of breathlessness and hyperventilationCopd: Similar to asthma in its presentation except it occurs throughout the day. Severe wheezing and a long history of smoking AI almost pathognomonicPneumonia bronchitis: Cough with sputum, fever,chest pain, increased rate of breathing are the symptoms to look out for. Hope this answers your question 