2. Pain That Worsens with Breathing or Coughing: A Telltale Sign of Rib Fracture
Individuals with a broken rib often experience increased pain during deep breaths, coughing, or laughing. This is because the movement of the ribcage during these activities can aggravate the fractured rib, causing more discomfort. The pain may be accompanied by shortness of breath, as the individual might be reluctant to take deep breaths due to the associated pain.
This avoidance of deep breathing can lead to complications such as pneumonia, as it hampers the ability to clear mucus from the lungs effectively. If you experience this symptom, it is crucial to seek medical attention and follow the recommended treatment plan to prevent further complications.
In some cases, the pain may subside temporarily while at rest or during shallow breathing, only to return when resuming normal breathing patterns or engaging in physical activity. This fluctuation in pain levels can make it challenging to determine the severity of the fracture, so it is always essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper assessment. (2)
