[54F] Experiencing severe leg pain when coughing

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your symptoms could include:

• Muscle Strain: Coughing can put a lot of strain on the muscles in your body, including those in your legs. If you've been coughing a lot due to your lung infection, this could potentially be causing your leg pain.

  • Treatment for muscle strain usually involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.

• Sciatica: This is a condition that results from irritation of your sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Symptoms can include pain that radiates along the path of your sciatic nerve, which could potentially be exacerbated by coughing.

  • Treatment for sciatica often involves physical therapy and pain relievers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Lumbar Disc Herniation: Given your history of degenerative disc disease and a broken back, it's possible that you could have a herniated disc in your lower back. Coughing can increase pressure in your spinal canal, which could potentially exacerbate symptoms of a herniated disc, such as leg pain.

  • Treatment for a herniated disc often involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and potentially surgery.

What you can do

You should definitely consult with a healthcare provider about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest: Try to avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
2. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, may help to alleviate your leg pain.
3. Heat or Cold: Applying a hot or cold pack to your legs may help to reduce pain and inflammation.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden, severe pain in your lower back or leg
• Numbness or weakness in your leg
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Difficulty walking or standing

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.