[42F] Experiencing sharp pain in right side and shoulder with deep breaths

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Pleurisy: This is an inflammation of the tissues that line your lungs and chest cavity. It can cause sharp pain that worsens with deep breaths. Pleurisy can be caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, or other underlying health issues.

  • Treatment: Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as antibiotics for an infection or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation.

• Musculoskeletal Pain: This could be due to muscle strain or inflammation in the muscles and tissues around your ribs and shoulder. This type of pain can be exacerbated by deep breathing.

  • Treatment: Rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and applying heat or cold to the affected area can help alleviate symptoms.

• Pulmonary Embolism: This is a more serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, causing sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing. Given your history of smoking and methamphetamine use, this is a possibility that should be ruled out urgently.

  • Treatment: This condition requires immediate medical attention and is typically treated with blood thinners or other medications to dissolve the clot.

• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): This occurs when air leaks into the space between your lung and chest wall, causing sharp pain and difficulty breathing.

  • Treatment: This condition also requires immediate medical attention and may involve procedures to remove the air and allow the lung to re-expand.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

1. Rest: Try to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.
2. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain.
3. Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying a heating pad or ice pack to the affected area may provide some relief.
4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking can exacerbate respiratory issues and delay healing. Consider reducing or quitting smoking.
5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms using the MDandMe journal. This can help you and your healthcare provider understand your condition better.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't get enough air.
• Chest Pain: Persistent or worsening chest pain, especially if it spreads to your arm, neck, or jaw.
• Coughing Up Blood: This could indicate a more serious underlying condition.
• Fever or Chills: These could be signs of an infection.

Remember, while this information can help you understand your symptoms, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.