Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Side Pain from Coughing

Coughing is one of the body’s natural reflexes to clear the airways, but when it becomes persistent or forceful, it can lead to discomfort in unexpected places. One of the most common issues people notice during or after a bout of coughing is pain in the side of the body. This type of pain can be sharp or aching and may become more noticeable with each cough, movement or deep breath. While it can feel alarming, side pain from coughing is often related to muscle strain and is rarely serious.

Understanding what causes this discomfort and how to relieve it at home can help ease your symptoms and support a quicker recovery.

Why Coughing Can Cause Side Pain

Each time you cough, your chest and abdominal muscles contract powerfully to force air out of the lungs. If you have been coughing frequently over several days or weeks, those muscles can become fatigued or strained. The muscles between your ribs, known as the intercostal muscles, are particularly prone to strain during repeated coughing, which can result in sharp or tender pain along the side of the chest or upper abdomen.

In some cases, the pain may also radiate to the back or become worse with twisting, sneezing or even laughing. If the coughing episode has been especially intense, a small muscle tear or irritation of the rib cartilage may also be contributing to the soreness.

What the Pain Feels Like

Side pain from coughing typically feels like a sharp or stabbing sensation that comes and goes with each cough or movement. It might also feel like a pulled muscle, becoming more noticeable when you twist your torso, lie on your side or take a deep breath. The area may feel tender to the touch, but there is usually no visible bruising or swelling.

If the pain worsens rapidly, becomes constant and severe, or is accompanied by breathlessness, fever, or coughing up blood, you should seek medical attention to rule out other conditions such as a chest infection or a more serious injury.

Rest and Gentle Movement

Giving your body time to rest is one of the most effective ways to help strained muscles heal. Try to avoid movements that trigger or worsen the pain, particularly sudden twisting or bending. However, lying completely still for long periods can lead to stiffness, so it is helpful to change position regularly and take gentle walks when possible.

Supporting your side with a cushion or your hand when coughing can reduce the strain on the affected area. This can also help lessen the sharpness of the pain and provide a little reassurance while your body recovers.

Applying Heat or Cold

Using a warm compress or heat pack on the sore area may help relax tight muscles and ease tension. Heat improves circulation and can make the area feel more comfortable. Apply heat for twenty minutes at a time, using a towel to protect your skin.

If the pain began very suddenly or is linked to recent injury from coughing, using a cold pack during the first twenty-four hours may help reduce inflammation. Switch to heat as the pain becomes more manageable in the following days.

Pain Relief and Breathing Support

Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and ease muscle pain. These should be taken as directed and are generally safe for short-term use unless advised otherwise by your GP or pharmacist.

Using a cough suppressant or throat-soothing remedy can also reduce the frequency of coughing, giving your muscles time to rest and recover. Drinking warm fluids, using steam inhalation or taking honey and lemon may soothe irritation in the throat and chest, especially if your cough is dry or tickly.

Try to take slow, steady breaths through your nose and avoid holding your breath or tensing up before coughing. Practising gentle breathing techniques can help prevent your muscles from becoming too tight and may also support relaxation.

Improving Your Cough Posture

The way you cough can make a difference to how much strain you place on your body. Try to cough with your mouth open and keep your shoulders relaxed, rather than hunching forward. If you feel a coughing fit coming on, gently brace your abdomen or side with your arm to lessen the impact. Using a supportive pillow when lying down can also help reduce pain caused by certain sleeping positions.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Although side pain from coughing is usually related to muscle strain, you should speak to your GP if the pain becomes more severe, interferes with breathing or is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest tightness, fever, wheezing or dizziness. These could point to a chest infection, pleurisy or in rare cases, a more serious cause that requires further assessment.

You should also seek help if you have a history of rib problems, osteoporosis or lung conditions, or if the pain is not improving within a few days.

Looking After Yourself During Recovery

Staying hydrated, eating well and getting enough rest are key to supporting your immune system and helping your body recover from the illness causing the cough in the first place. Avoid smoking and try to limit exposure to cold air or irritants that may trigger more coughing. If your symptoms are due to a viral infection, they will usually improve within one to two weeks. During this time, listen to your body and avoid overexertion.

Final Thought

Side pain from coughing can be unpleasant, but it is often a temporary result of your muscles working harder than usual. With warmth, rest, supportive posture and simple pain relief, most people find that the discomfort settles within a few days. If you are concerned about the intensity or duration of the pain, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, your GP can help assess your recovery and guide you towards a full return to comfort and health.