Herniated Disc
- A common cause, especially in the lumbar spine.
- Coughing increases pressure on spinal discs, potentially pushing against nearby nerves.
- Pain may worsen with sitting, bending, or sneezing.
Muscle Strain
- Frequent or forceful coughing can strain or tear lower back muscles.
- Pain is often sharp or dull and localized to one side.
- May be tender to touch and worsens with movement.
Spinal Stenosis
- Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves.
- Coughing or straining may intensify nerve pressure and symptoms.
Spondylolisthesis or Spinal Instability
- Slippage of a vertebra can be aggravated by increased intra-spinal pressure during a cough.
Compression Fracture
- Typically occurs in older adults with osteoporosis.
- Sudden, severe pain with a cough or sneeze may indicate a vertebral fracture.
Kidney Issues
- If pain is more lateral or in the flank area, especially with fever, hematuria, or nausea, consider kidney stones or infection.
