Broken or bruised rib? hurts when i take a deep breath sharp pain?

?trauma: If you have had trauma to the chest cage the rib or ribs could be fractured or bruised as the symptoms are essentially similar except for the duration of the discomfort. An x-Ray of the rib cage makes the diagnosis. There is no specific treatment except rest and pain relief unless there are lung complications. If there has been no injury, then a pinched intercostal nerve may cause sharp pain also.

Mgt: Bruising of the rib will heal in a few weeks time. In the meantime, the use of a heating pad and NSAID can help to alleviate the pain. If you have shortness of breath or difficulty breathing a follow up with a chest radiograph is advisable. Virtual consult appt available and your radiograph can be viewed during the appt.