Broken Ribs

A broken rib is a fracture of one or more of the ribs. The ribs are the long curved bones that protect the lungs and heart. The most common cause of broken ribs is trauma to the chest, such as from a fall, motor vehicle accident or impact during contact sports.

Broken ribs symptoms

• Severe pain is experienced in the broken part of the rib. If you ignore this chest pain due to cracked rib, it has the potential to puncture your lungs. T
• Difficulty breathing This is another cracked rib symptom that is experienced, i.e. difficulty in breathing.
• Due to difficulty in breathing, other cracked rib symptoms follow, like, fatigue, dizziness and headache.
• Most patients find it painful to breath.
• Most patients find it painful to move or lift their arms.

How is a fractured rib diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask questions about your injury and do a physical exam. The doctor may:

• Push on your chest to find out where you are hurt.
• Watch you breathe and listen to your lungs to make sure air is moving in and out normally.
• X-ray or other imaging test
• Listen to your heart.
• Check your head, neck, spine, and belly to make sure there are no other injuries.