The Complete Idiot's Guide to Pain Relief by Alpana Gowda

Author:Alpana Gowda
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Penguin USA, Inc.
Published: 2010-05-27T00:00:00+00:00

Fractures

A fractured rib is an extremely painful injury. Because the ribs move each time you breathe, each breath you take hurts. A rib is considered fractured if there’s a crack in it or if the bone is broken. Because the cartilage that attaches the ribs to the breastbone is so much a part of the rib cage, if part of this cartilage is ruptured, you’re considered to have a fractured rib.

Accidents and falls are primary causes of fractured ribs, and any blow to the chest can result in a fracture. If you have osteoporosis or cancer, which can lead to thin and weakened bones, you can even fracture a rib by coughing.

It is possible to have other injuries in addition to the rib fracture, and your physician is the one to determine whether you’ve injured any internal organs in addition to your ribs.

The main symptom of a fractured rib is pain—pain when you breathe, pain when you move, and pain when any pressure is applied to your breastbone. Because of the pain, you may have trouble breathing and take more shallow breaths. Decreased oxygen supply can intensify feelings of anxiety.

Diagnosis is made based upon evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination and x-rays. X-rays may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis, but these may be inconclusive. Your doctor may go on to order CT scans as well.

Unfortunately, the best treatment for a fractured rib is time, and rib fractures can take some time to heal. Most will heal on their own within 6 to 10 weeks.

Treatment for a fractured rib may include icing, rest, and NSAIDs. If the pain is severe, your physician may prescribe stronger pain medication. Taping isn’t done anymore because it can interfere with deep breathing and increase your risk of pneumonia or a collapsed lung. You may find it easier to breathe if you lie on the side where the rib or ribs are broken.

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