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What Causes Severe Pain At Left Side Of Rib Cage?
Question: i have severe pain in the left side . it appears to be around right at and below my ribcage area. I was in a car accident about a month ago. over the last few days the pain has gotten worse. the pain is constant but increases when I move or take a deep breath. I have a swollen area there as well. the pain seems to go around from the front to my back. pain increases when I lift my left arm. wondering if it could be a displaced rib, broken rib or even spleen. what are your thoughts?
Brief Answer:
Most probably costochondritis.
Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query.
Noted the history of car accident a month back and now the pain and swelling at or just below the rib cage with referred pains and the enhancement with movement or on deep breathing.
Your suspicion is absolutely right.
This looks more of a costochondritis as per the history you have provided.It has gotten worse over the last few days.
Continue Motrin thrice daily after food and take a PPI like Omeprazole to avoid acidity.
I would advise you further to get a clinical examination done and a X-ray to rule out any fracture causing the problem and ultrasonography of the abdomen to rule out any internal injury.
Strapping with skin adhesive tape when you have expired out all the lung air gives instant and long term relief, helps in healing and comfort.
Once confirmed about the cause the treatment becomes easy and specific.
I hope this answer helps you, please free to ask further relevant queries if you feel that there is a gap of communication.
Most probably costochondritis.
Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query.
Noted the history of car accident a month back and now the pain and swelling at or just below the rib cage with referred pains and the enhancement with movement or on deep breathing.
Your suspicion is absolutely right.
This looks more of a costochondritis as per the history you have provided.It has gotten worse over the last few days.
Continue Motrin thrice daily after food and take a PPI like Omeprazole to avoid acidity.
I would advise you further to get a clinical examination done and a X-ray to rule out any fracture causing the problem and ultrasonography of the abdomen to rule out any internal injury.
Strapping with skin adhesive tape when you have expired out all the lung air gives instant and long term relief, helps in healing and comfort.
Once confirmed about the cause the treatment becomes easy and specific.
I hope this answer helps you, please free to ask further relevant queries if you feel that there is a gap of communication.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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