Localization of the rib block

Right-sided rib blockages usually manifest themselves as right-sided, stabbing pain, which can sometimes even occur in attacks. Breathing is difficult, and activities such as pressing (for example, when defecating) or sneezing aggravate the pain. Left-sided rib blockages cause pain that can easily be confused with the symptoms of a heart attack.

These include chest pain, especially on the left side, a feeling of tightness due to restricted mobility and pain when breathing, and pain radiating to the left arm or shoulder. Patients who suffer from such pain quickly become restless and anxious. This restlessness or fear can also be misinterpreted as symptoms of a heart attack.

If such symptoms occur, a medical examination should be carried out quickly to rule out a heart attack. For laypersons, it can be very difficult or impossible to distinguish a rib blockage from a heart attack. If the symptoms in the chest area increase in the form of pain, shortness of breath or palpitations, those affected should therefore consult a doctor in any case.

In general, however, there are symptoms that are more specific to a heart attack. A typical symptom, for example, is pain radiating into the lower jaw or left shoulder, whereby the pain often has a destructive character and is accompanied by a distinct feeling of tightness in the chest. Those affected often describe this as “non-comparable” with otherwise known symptoms.

The affected persons are therefore often cold sweaty, pale and panicky. Nevertheless, a subjective description of the symptoms is not sufficient for the diagnosis “heart attack“. The only proof or exclusion is an ECG.

In contrast, a typical symptom of a rib blockage is that it usually occurs after movement and suddenly causes pain when inhaled. From the pain localization, the pain is located in the back area rather than directly in front of the heart. Important information on this topic:

Signs of a heart attack