[52M] Experiencing severe cough with chest pain and night sweats

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Acute Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes in your lungs. Symptoms include cough with mucus, chest discomfort or soreness, fatigue, and mild headache. It's often caused by a viral infection, so antibiotics are not effective in treating it.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers and cough suppressants.

• Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid. Symptoms include cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, fever reducers, and cough medicine. It's important to get medical attention if pneumonia is suspected.

• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): While less likely, given your age and the presence of cough and shortness of breath (especially at night), heart conditions such as CHF could be a consideration. CHF can cause fluid buildup in the lungs leading to cough and shortness of breath.

  • Treatment of CHF involves medications to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.

What you can do

Given your symptoms, especially the chest pain and difficulty breathing, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately. While waiting for medical help:

1. Try to stay calm and rest as much as possible.
2. Avoid lying flat when sleeping; use pillows to prop yourself up.
3. Avoid exertion as it may worsen your symptoms.
4. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your chest pain or shortness of breath worsens.
• You start coughing up blood.
• You experience severe weakness, dizziness, or fainting.
• You have a high fever that is not relieved with over-the-counter medications.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and condition properly.