Bruised Rib Symptoms

The ribs of the body keep our vital organs like the heart and lungs protected. There are 24 ribs in a typical human rib cage. The first seven ribs are called as true ribs. These rib bones are connected to the spinal cord in the back. The other end of these bones is connected directly to the breast bone in the front by a cartilage called the costal cartilage. The next three pairs of bones are called false ribs. These shorter bones, though connected to the spine in the back, they are attached to the true ribs instead of the sternum in the front. The last two set of ribs are called floating ribs. They are even smaller than the false ribs. These ribs are attached to the spine in the back, but are not joined or connected to any bone or sternum in the front.

A bruise is medically termed as a contusion. Bruised ribs are caused due to an injury in the rib or the abdominal area. During a hard impact, the ribs push themselves against the muscle walls around them that causes bruising. Bruised ribs are commonly seen in football players, ice hockey players, car accident or any other accident victim that involves high velocity impact on the chest. Constant coughing, pneumonia, whooping cough may also lead to a bruised rib.

Bruised ribs are very painful and take a long time to heal. It is very important to identify bruised rib symptoms as it will help your doctor decide on the treatment and the necessary safety precautions needed to cure your bruises. The following few points will help you understand the bruised rib symptoms.

Symptoms of Bruised Rib
The bruised rib symptoms commonly observed are as follows:

• Tenderness near the injury area
  
• Pleuritic pain, that is, it is very painful to take a deep breath.
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Increase in pain due to any movement.
  
• Sharp, constant pain in the rib
  
• Visible signs of bruising near the original site of trauma or injury

Diagnosing a Bruised Rib
The medical consultant may advise a chest x-ray to rule out any broken ribs. The x-ray may also help in diagnosing any possible signs of pneumothorax or pulmonary contusion. The doctor may also check the upper abdominal area for any trauma on the spleen and liver.

Complications Due to Bruised Rib
Bruised rib may lead to pneumonia as the injury may not allow the lung to expand fully. As the normal mechanism is altered, it may lead to a lung infection. This infection may result in pneumonia.

Treating Bruised Lung Symptoms

• A bruised lung symptom can be treated by anti-inflammatory medications and pain killers that include ibuprofen. Some medical consultants may also advise narcotic pain medication.
  
• You should apply an ice pack on the affected area to relieve the pain. Take periodic deep breaths to stretch the muscles.
  
• Do not wrap the ribs as this may increase chances of pneumonia.
  
• Do not take part in vigorous activities and sports that can do harm to your bruised ribs.
  
• Protect your chest with your arms from any sudden trauma or injury.

Bruised ribs take around 3 to 4 weeks to heal. If you experience any symptom of bruised rib visit the doctor immediately. Do not exercise and lift heavy weights. Do not take any medication without medical advice. Take care of your bruised rib as improper care may lead to life long pain and other respiratory problems. With a little bit of caution and safety precautions, you can avoid injuring your rib cage.