My Back Hurts When I Cough

My Back Hurts When I Cough - If you're one of the many who have experienced back pain when coughing, you know how frustrating and debilitating it can be. But don't worry, there are things you can do to help alleviate the pain and prevent it from happening in the future. Below are some causes, symptoms, and remedies for back pain caused by coughing.

What Causes Back Pain When Coughing?

Herniated Discs

Back pain when coughing can be caused by several factors, including herniated discs. This occurs when the soft nucleus of a spinal disc bulges or ruptures through a weak area in the outer disc layer. When the bulge irritates nearby nerves in the spinal cord, it can cause severe pain in the back, as well as the legs and buttocks.

Muscle Strain

Another common cause of back pain when coughing is muscle strain. When you cough, your body contracts the muscles in the torso and back, which can cause strains and pulls. This can especially be the case if you have a chronic cough or are coughing frequently due to an illness such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Arthritis

Back pain caused by coughing can also be related to arthritis. If you have arthritis in your spine, coughing can put extra pressure on the joints and nerves, which can cause pain.

Symptoms of Back Pain When Coughing

Back pain when coughing can be a sharp, stabbing pain, or it can be a dull, achy pain depending on the cause. Some people also experience tingling or numbness in the legs and feet.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have pain that lasts longer than a few days, it's important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Remedies for Back Pain When Coughing

Hot and Cold Therapy

Hot and cold therapy is an effective way to relieve back pain caused by coughing. Applying a heat pad or hot water bottle to the affected area can help relax the muscles and reduce pain. Applying ice or a cold pack can also help reduce inflammation and numb the area.

Stretching Exercises

Stretching exercises can help alleviate back pain caused by coughing. Gentle stretches such as the knee-to-chest stretch or the piriformis stretch can help relieve tension in the back muscles and reduce pain. Consult with your doctor or physical therapist to learn the best stretches for your specific condition.

TENS Therapy

TENS therapy involves the use of a small device that delivers electrical impulses to the affected area. This can help reduce pain signals to the brain and promote the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin can help relieve back pain caused by coughing. However, it's important to speak with your doctor before taking any medications, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

Preventing Back Pain When Coughing

The best way to prevent back pain when coughing is to address the underlying cause of the cough. This can include taking measures to treat underlying medical conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia, or addressing lifestyle factors that may contribute to chronic coughing such as smoking or exposure to irritants.

Other preventative measures include proper posture when coughing, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular exercise. Regular exercise can help improve posture, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the muscles in the back and core, all of which can help prevent back pain when coughing.

Why Does My Throat Itch When I Have a Cold?

In addition to back pain when coughing, many people also experience itchiness in their throat when they have a cold. This is a common symptom of a cold and is caused by irritation from mucus or other irritants in the throat.

To help alleviate itchiness in the throat during a cold, try gargling with warm salt water, drinking warm liquids such as tea or soup, or sucking on lozenges or hard candies.

Remember, if you experience any back pain, especially when coughing, it's important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. By taking preventative measures and seeking treatment as needed, you can help alleviate back pain caused by coughing and improve your overall quality of life.

In Conclusion

Back pain when coughing can be frustrating and debilitating, but it doesn't have to be a permanent condition. By addressing the underlying cause of the cough and taking preventative measures such as maintaining proper posture and engaging in regular exercise, you can help alleviate the pain and prevent it from happening in the future. Don't hesitate to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or have pain that lasts longer than a few days. With the right treatment and care, you can get relief from back pain caused by coughing and improve your overall health and well-being.