Rib injuries
When to see a doctor
See your GP if your pain hasn't started to improve within a few weeks. They can prescribe stronger painkillers if necessary and refer you to hospital if they feel you need further treatment.
Seek medical helpimmediately if you develop any signs of a more serious problem, such as:
- increasing shortness of breath
- increasing chest pain
- pain in your tummyor shoulder
- coughing up blood
- coughing up yellow or greenmucus
- a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
The above symptoms may indicate a chest infection or may mean a broken rib has damaged your lung, causing the lung to collapse (pneumothorax) or injuring another organ, such as the liver or spleen.
Go straight to yournearest accident and emergency (A&E) department for an assessment if your injury was the result of a serious accident, such as a vehicle collision.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read more about how long it takes injured ribs to heal, how to look after yourself until you're feeling better, and when you should seek medical advice.
How can I tell if I've injured my ribs?
A broken or bruised rib will feel very painful, particularly when you breathe in. You may feel you can only takeshallow breaths, but it's important youtry to breathe normally to help clear mucus fr
Caring for your injury at home
In most cases, you can take care of broken or bruised ribs at home. While your injury heals, pain relief is very important, as it will hurt every time you breathe in or cough . Taking shallow breathsa
When to see a doctor
See your GP if your pain hasn't started to improve within a few weeks. They can prescribe stronger painkillers if necessary and refer you to hospital if they feel you need further treatment. Seek med
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