Back pain while breathing Back pain while breathing can result from many possible causes, including infections, injuries, and heart disorders. If the cause is not clear, the person should see a doctor, because pain while breathing can be a symptom of serious disorders. Pain in the upper back while breathing usually extends around the chest. Acute pain can be a symptom of pleurisy or a heart attack, while non-acute pain may be caused by a fracture in the vertebrae or muscle strain. Looking for other symptoms can help a person determine the cause of the…