Im 44 and have had a cough/cold for 2 weeks now. When I cough I get a tight squeezing in the area of my heart that is painful. Sometimes the pain/squeezing feeling continues when I am not actually coughing anymore. Right now the pain is pretty intense but I dont have any shortness of breath, sweats or palpitations.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of musculoskeletal pain is more. But better to first rule out lung infection (pneumonia) because pneumonia can cause cough and pleuritic pain (chest pain one coughing). So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and chest x-ray. If these are normal then no need to worry about pneumonia. Musculoskeletal pain is more likely in your case. So follow these steps for better symptomatic relief.1. Avoid movements causing pain. 2. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. 3. Avoid bad postures in sleep. 4. Take painkiller like ibuprofen. Also take antihistamine like levocetrizine for cough. 5. Apply warm water pad on affected areas. Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.