Differential Diagnosis for Chest Burning when Coughing
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The symptom of chest burning when coughing is highly suggestive of GERD, especially if the coughing exacerbates the burning sensation. GERD is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and chest discomfort.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Acute Bronchitis: This condition often presents with a cough, which can irritate the chest and cause a burning sensation. It's usually caused by a viral infection.
- Pneumonia: Although pneumonia typically presents with more severe symptoms like fever, chills, and shortness of breath, it can cause chest pain that worsens with coughing.
- Asthma: Asthma can cause chest tightness and burning, especially during coughing episodes, due to airway inflammation and constriction.
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause sharp pains or a burning sensation in the chest, which may worsen with coughing.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less likely, a pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition that can cause sudden onset of chest pain, which may worsen with deep breathing or coughing. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has risk factors like recent travel, immobility, or a history of clotting disorders.
- Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Chest pain or discomfort that occurs with coughing could be a sign of a heart attack, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or arm pain.
- Esophageal Perforation: A rare but serious condition where the esophagus ruptures, potentially causing severe chest pain that worsens with coughing or movement.
Rare Diagnoses
- Esophageal Spasm: Abnormal muscle contractions of the esophagus can cause chest pain or burning, which might be triggered by coughing.
- Pleurisy: Inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs (pleura) can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.
- Mediastinitis: Inflammation of the tissues in the mediastinum (the area between the lungs) can cause chest pain, which might be exacerbated by coughing. This condition is often associated with infections or injuries.