Why Does My Rib Hurt When I Breathe?

Rib pain during breathing typically indicates inflammation of the intercostal muscles, cartilage, or pleura surrounding your ribs. Common causes include muscle strain from coughing, physical activity, or poor posture, which affects up to 30% of adults annually. Costochondritis, inflammation of rib cartilage, causes sharp pain that worsens with deep breaths or movement. Other possibilities include bruised ribs, pleurisy (lung lining inflammation), or rarely, stress fractures. The pain usually intensifies with deep inhalation because breathing expands the rib cage, stretching inflamed tissues. Most cases resolve within 2-6 weeks with rest and anti-inflammatory medications, but persistent or severe pain warrants medical evaluation.

Related Questions

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