[header] How to treat bruised ribs [title] Seek immediate medical attention if you have shortness of breath or chest pain. [step] A rib that's bruised or cracked is damaged, but still in its place in the rib cage. A broken rib, however, is dangerous because it's been dislodged from its normal position, and could potentially puncture a blood vessel, lung, or another organ.
[header] How to treat bruised ribs [title] Seek immediate medical attention if you have shortness of breath or chest pain. [step] A rib that's bruised or cracked is damaged, but still in its place in the rib cage. A broken rib, however, is dangerous because it's been dislodged from its normal position, and could potentially puncture a blood vessel, lung, or another organ.
[substeps] If you've been injured and want to get emergency medical help right away, call 911 as soon as possible. [title] Determine whether you have shortness of breath. [substeps] It's important to call emergency medical services as soon as possible. The blood vessels in your ribs can reform if you don't get medical attention. [title] See your doctor if you're having trouble breathing. [step] If you feel sharp pain shooting through the bone, you have inflammation, or you feel pain radiating throughout your body, seek medical attention right away. Seek medical attention instead of attempting to treat yourself at home if you suspect your ribs are broken instead of bruised. [substeps] Lightly run your hands over your ribcage.