Suggest Treatment For Blunt Chest Trauma

Posted on Fri, 24 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 14 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Steadily worsening over a week - pain on right side near bottom of ribs. Did fall down stairs but pain was slight until near end of this week. Hurts along right side just below right bottom rib near back. Excruciating stabbing pain if I cough. Hard to get up from sitting position. Worsened very much today. Pain makes me dizzy

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Immediately get done chest x ray.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on HCM.
I can understand your situation and problem.
You are having blunt chest trauma due to fall.
And following are the possible complications after blunt chest trauma that can cause similar symptoms.
1. Rib fracture
2. Pneumothorax
3. Pulmonary contusions
4. Hemothorax (blood in pleural cavity)
5. Muscular injury.
So get done chest x ray first to rule out above mentioned causes.
If chest x ray is normal then you are mostly having muscular injury.
So follow these steps for better symptomatic relief.
1. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise.
2. Avoid bad postures in sleep and painful movements.
3. Start painkiller and muscle relaxant.
4. Apply warm water pad on affected site.
Don't worry, you will be alright in 1-2 weeks.
Hope I have solved your query.
I will be happy to help you further.
Wish you good health.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar