I've been experiencing sharp chest pain whenever I sneeze or cough really hard. It sometimes flares up when I flex my chest muscles during a workout too quickly. This has been going on for almost a year now. If I press on the spot where it hurts, there's a slight pain. What could this be, and should I be worried?

You may be experiencing costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone. To help alleviate the pain, you can take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) as directed on the package. Additionally, applying a warm compress to the area may provide some relief. Make sure to rest and avoid activities that worsen the pain. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.