[38M] Experiencing severe upper back pain with muscle spasms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Musculoskeletal Pain: This is often caused by strain from daily activities, poor posture, or an injury. The pain can be localized or widespread, and it often comes with muscle spasms.

  • Treatment typically includes rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants.

• Pleurisy: This is an inflammation of the lining of the lungs and chest (the pleura) that leads to chest pain (usually sharp) when you take a breath or cough.

  • Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation, such as an infection or other medical condition.

• Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum), an area known as the costosternal joint.

  • Treatment usually involves rest and anti-inflammatory medications.

• Pulmonary Embolism: This is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs. In most cases, pulmonary embolism is caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from deep veins in the legs or, rarely, from veins in other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis).

  • Treatment typically involves medications to prevent clotting and to break up clots.

Please remember that this is not an exhaustive list and other diagnoses are also possible.

What you can do

1. Continue taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
2. Try to rest and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
3. Apply heat to the area to help relax your muscles and relieve pain.
4. If your pain is severe or doesn't improve after a week, make an appointment to see your doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both of your legs
• Coughing up blood
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.