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Why Am I Having Pain In My Rib Cage?
Hi...I ve had a hida scan twice..first time my number was a 57. The second time it was a 70. The pain in my rib cage is bad and I am sick a lot..I was wondering since I got a 70 the second time shouldnt I not have anymore attaks. I dont have any gallstones
Fri, 6 Sep 2019
Hello,
From your description of events and your symptoms, it is likely you have either fractured a rib or ribs or caused inflammation of the costochondral joint.
This is where the rib cartilage joins the sternum. Classically, there will be pain on movement, relieved by rest. It will get better over time but may take some days.
Treatment involves pain relief such as ibuprofen. I note you are taking this. Also, warmth applied to the painful area in the form of warm compresses will help.
Coughing will make the pain worse and supporting the area during coughing will reduce acute pain. There is a risk of secondary chest infection if breathing is impaired due to pain.
A chest X-ray would help diagnose fractured ribs. However, the treatment would be no different if this was confirmed.
I suggest you maintain adequate pain relief with ibuprofen and paracetamol. Rest when possible. Warm compresses regularly. If you are not improved in 2-3 days go to the ED for further assessment.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon
From your description of events and your symptoms, it is likely you have either fractured a rib or ribs or caused inflammation of the costochondral joint.
This is where the rib cartilage joins the sternum. Classically, there will be pain on movement, relieved by rest. It will get better over time but may take some days.
Treatment involves pain relief such as ibuprofen. I note you are taking this. Also, warmth applied to the painful area in the form of warm compresses will help.
Coughing will make the pain worse and supporting the area during coughing will reduce acute pain. There is a risk of secondary chest infection if breathing is impaired due to pain.
A chest X-ray would help diagnose fractured ribs. However, the treatment would be no different if this was confirmed.
I suggest you maintain adequate pain relief with ibuprofen and paracetamol. Rest when possible. Warm compresses regularly. If you are not improved in 2-3 days go to the ED for further assessment.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon
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