I fractured ribs (6-8) 9 days ago and had some increased difficulty breathing and pain six days later.  The dr. ordered a follow up chest x-ray which shows atelectasis of the left lung base.  He has not responded to tell me how to treat this.  As I also have a history of asthma, Im wondering if I should start taking the steroid long acting inhaler as well as the albuterol that he had instructed me to use routinely when I first fractured my ribs.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation and problem. Rib fracture causes paradoxical respiration in that particular segment. So that part of the lung becomes poorly ventilated and thus atelectasis occur. In catechesis chances of infection are high, so better not to take steroid. Instead of steroid, you should take anti-inflammatory, mucosa tickets Chat Doctor.  And wear rib belt to avoid mobilization of fractured segments. This will fasten the recovery and healing. Also apply warm water pad on affected site for pain relief. It will take at least 3-4 weeks for healing of fracture rib.