Why Do I Get a Sharp Pain in My Side When I Breathe?

Sharp pain while breathing can have several causes, including pleurisy, muscle strain, or rib injury. Pleurisy occurs when the pleural membranes surrounding your lungs become inflamed, causing knife-like pain that worsens with deep breaths. How often pleurisy occurs is difficult to estimate because it can result from many different underlying conditions. Intercostal muscle strain between your ribs can also create sharp breathing pain, especially after coughing, exercise, or sudden movements. Other causes include pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or costochondritis (rib cartilage inflammation). The pain's location, duration, and accompanying symptoms help determine the underlying cause. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, or coughing up blood.