What to do in case of a broken rib?
A broken rib is usually very annoying, but unproblematic. If only one or a few ribs are broken, usually only painkillers such as NSAIDs can be administered to relieve the symptoms. As long as the fracture is uncomplicated, i.e. not delayed, it heals by itself within a few weeks.
Even the patient cannot do much here. A rib fracture is often very painful and causes severe pain, especially when inhaled. Patients should therefore be given sufficient painkillers to relieve the discomfort and make breathing easier.
As a rule, no special therapy is necessary for a rib fracture and it heals by itself. However, if the pain is very severe, the patient can take painkillers. Ibuprofen, Novalgin® or Tramadol are particularly suitable.
Particularly during the initial period and when the pain is particularly severe, pain-relieving medication should not be avoided, as otherwise there is a risk of taking a relieving posture. Respiration is also severely restricted in severe pain, which increases the risk of pneumonia. If a rib fracture has been caused by coughing, either the cough must be very strong, or the bone structure of the ribs has been altered in such a way that a bone fracture can occur due to the slight application of force.
This is the case for example with osteoporosis. A rib fracture caused by coughing is treated in the same way as a rib fracture that is due to other causes. If the fracture is not displaced, treatment is usually not necessary.
It heals by itself after about 12 weeks. However, medication against the pain can be taken if it becomes too strong. Here, for example, ibuprofen is suitable, which can be dosed according to need.
If the cough that led to the rib fracture still exists, it should be treated in any case. The underlying disease should be treated and in addition, expectorant medication can be taken to relieve the cough. If a rib fracture has already occurred once due to coughing, it may help to press with the hands against the chest to create counter pressure when coughing again.
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