Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
180 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Severe Cough And Congestion After A Rib Fracture?

I broke 4 ribs 4 years ago 8,9,10,11 . 9,10 were plated 10 is still broke and 8 healed. I have developed a deep harsh cough that wakes me up at nite. I sleep with pillows and head of bed elevate. The cough produces thick white sputum. The cough occasionally will happen throughout the day.
posted on Mon, 26 Jun 2017
Twitter Thu, 28 Sep 2017 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 28 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on
Report Abuse
Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Rib fractures can cause atelectesis (partial collapse of part of lung).
Rib fractures prevent movement of lung infections that area. So there is passive collapse (atelectesis) of lung in that area which is causing cough, congestion and mucus production.
So get done chest x ray and HRCT thorax to diagnose atelectesis.
You will need NAC (N acetyl cystine) 600mg twice daily and chest physiotherapy are treatment for atelectesis.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
I find this answer helpful

1 Doctor agrees with this answer

Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Severe Cough And Congestion After A Rib Fracture?

Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic. I can understand your concern. Rib fractures can cause atelectesis (partial collapse of part of lung). Rib fractures prevent movement of lung infections that area. So there is passive collapse (atelectesis) of lung in that area which is causing cough, congestion and mucus production. So get done chest x ray and HRCT thorax to diagnose atelectesis. You will need NAC (N acetyl cystine) 600mg twice daily and chest physiotherapy are treatment for atelectesis. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.