What it is
Shallow breathing because of pain can lead to a chest infection, so taking painkillers regularly and doing breathing exercises is important.
Ribs are no longer strapped, as this stops the lungs expanding. Several broken ribs, or ribs broken in a serious accident, need checking in hospital.
Common signs
- Pain in the chest that is worse when breathing in, coughing or moving
- Tenderness and swelling over the ribs
- Bruising
- A crack or crunch felt at the time of injury
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination
- X-ray or CT scan only if a complication is suspected
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Emergency department letters
- X-ray or CT reports, if done
- Bone density results if ribs broke after a minor injury
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which painkillers can I take, and how often?
- Which breathing exercises should I do?
- What signs of a chest infection should I watch for?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Increasing breathlessness, coughing up blood, or chest pain with fever: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.