A bruised rib, also known as a rib contusion, is a common injury resulting from trauma to the chest. This type of injury involves damage to the soft tissues, such as muscles, cartilage, and connective tissues, surrounding the ribs. While often not as severe as a fractured rib, the pain from a bruised rib can be substantial, particularly when breathing. Tenderness, swelling, and sometimes discoloration around the affected area are characteristic symptoms.
Why Breathing Hurts
The chest cavity, protected by the rib cage, undergoes constant movement during respiration. When a rib is bruised, the surrounding tissues become inflamed and sensitive. Breathing causes the rib cage to expand and contract, directly irritating these injured tissues. This continuous motion means even shallow breaths provoke pain, as the intercostal muscles and diaphragm are constantly working. The discomfort arises from the stretching and compression of damaged soft tissues with each inhale and exhale.
Easing Discomfort
Managing the pain from bruised ribs at home primarily involves reducing inflammation and supporting comfortable breathing. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate discomfort, though ibuprofen should be avoided for the first 48 hours after injury as it may slow healing. Acetaminophen is another option for pain relief. Applying an ice pack to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times per day during the first one to two days, can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Rest is important, but complete immobility should be avoided to prevent fluid buildup in the lungs. Gentle breathing exercises, such as taking slow, deep breaths every hour, help keep the lungs clear and prevent complications like pneumonia. Holding a pillow against the injured ribs can provide support and make deep breaths or coughs less painful. Activities that exacerbate pain, such as heavy lifting, twisting, or strenuous sports, should be avoided. It is important not to bind or wrap the ribs tightly, as this can restrict lung expansion and increase the risk of lung infections.
When to Get Help
While most bruised ribs heal on their own within a few weeks, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Seek immediate care if you experience severe or worsening pain, increasing shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. Other red flags include coughing up blood, fever, or increasing swelling or bruising. Pain that radiates to the abdomen or shoulder, or pain that does not improve after a few weeks, also indicates a need for medical evaluation.
These symptoms could suggest a more serious injury, such as a fractured rib, which can sometimes lead to complications like a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or bleeding around the lung (hemothorax). A pneumothorax can cause sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, while a hemothorax may present with chest pain, rapid heart rate, or low blood pressure. Prompt medical assessment can differentiate between a simple bruise and a more severe condition, ensuring appropriate treatment.