Chest pain when breathing in can be caused by several conditions, including lung-related issues such as pleurisy (inflammation of the lining around the lungs), pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung), pneumonia, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), or musculoskeletal problems like costochondritis and rib injuries. It can also be linked to heart-related conditions, infections, or even nerve pain. The pain is often sharp and worsens with deep breaths, coughing, or movement of the chest. If the chest pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.