Beyond the Obvious: 7 Surprising Symptoms of Rib Fractures
Published: Sep 27, 2023
While chest pain is the hallmark of rib fractures, several other symptoms can indicate a break. Recognizing these signs can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment.
Contents
The Usual Suspects: Classic Symptoms
The most common symptom of a rib fracture is sharp, localized pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or movement. You might also experience tenderness or swelling over the affected area. Some people describe hearing or feeling a crack at the time of injury. These symptoms often prompt people to seek medical attention.
Breathing Troubles: More Than Just Pain
Shortness of breath can occur with rib fractures, even if the lungs aren't directly injured. This is often due to pain limiting deep breaths. In some cases, shallow, rapid breathing might be noticeable. If breathing difficulties are severe or worsen, it could indicate a more serious complication like a punctured lung.
The Domino Effect: Symptoms Beyond the Chest
Rib fractures can sometimes cause symptoms in unexpected areas. Upper abdominal pain might occur with lower rib fractures. Shoulder pain can be present, especially when taking deep breaths. Some people experience increased pain or discomfort when lying flat. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, pain or injury to lower ribs can sometimes cause nausea.
No, bruising isn't always present, especially with hairline fractures.
Rarely, but some stress fractures may cause minimal initial pain.
It can be, but requires immediate medical attention as it suggests lung injury.
Key Takeaways
While some symptoms are obvious, others can be subtle – when in doubt, seek medical evaluation.
Experiencing unusual symptoms and wondering if they could be related to a rib injury? Chat with Doctronic for expert guidance.Related Articles
References
Bulger EM, et al. Rib fractures in the elderly. J Trauma 2000; 48:1040.
Miller TL, et al. Stress fractures of the ribs and upper extremities: causation, evaluation, and management. Sports Med 2013; 43:665.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.