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Bruised or broken ribs can be very painful, but usually heal by themselves.
Broken or bruised ribs are usually caused by a fall, a blow to the chest or severe coughing.
Symptoms include:
Ribs cannot be easily splinted or supported like other bones, so they're usually left to heal naturally.
There's often no need for an X-ray.
Broken or bruised ribs usually get better by themselves within 2 to 6 weeks.
There are things you can do to help ease pain and speed up healing.
use painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen gel (or ibuprofen tablets if needed)
hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a tea towel to the affected ribs regularly in the first few days to bring down swelling
rest and take time off work if you need to
breathe normally and cough when you need to – this helps clear mucus from your lungs to prevent chest infections
hold a pillow against your chest if you need to cough
walk around and sometimes move your shoulders to help you breathe and clear mucus from your lungs
regularly take slow, deep breaths to help clear your lungs
try to sleep more upright for the first few nights
do not lie down or stay still for a long time
do not strain yourself or lift heavy objects
do not play any sports or do any exercise that makes your pain worse
do not smoke
You have a broken or bruised rib and:
You might need stronger painkillers or have a chest infection that needs antibiotics.
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.
You have a broken or bruised rib and:
It could mean a broken rib has damaged something else, like your lung, liver or spleen.
