Rib Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Fall

Slipped in the bathtub and injured the left rib?

Situation description: Slipped and fell in the bathtub.
Sought medical attention and had an X-ray.
Injury: Left side, the bottom two ribs and the area below.
The doctor said: 1.
Go home and monitor the pain (of course it hurts...).
2.
X-ray: mostly normal, but cannot rule out small fractures.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
How can I determine if I need to rush back to the hospital? 2.
Could the organs (it seems to be the spleen in that area) be damaged? There is significant swelling below the ribs and it is extremely painful.
Current condition: 8 hours after seeking medical attention.
Very painful.
Breathing is difficult; I need to press on the injured area and bend over (almost touching my knees with my head) to breathe more comfortably.
I am very anxious and live alone.
Thank you.

Chen Chuyun, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/15

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

1.
The injured area should be treated with ice packs and accompanied by the use of pain relievers.

2.
There is a possibility of splenic injury, but a CT scan is necessary for diagnosis.
If symptoms such as low blood pressure or anemia occur, medical attention should be sought promptly.

3.
About 95% of rib fractures can heal on their own, typically within 1 to 2 months.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2022/02/15

More Info

When it comes to rib injuries, especially after a fall, it is crucial to understand the signs that warrant immediate medical attention. Based on your description of slipping in the bathtub and the subsequent pain and discomfort, here are some insights and recommendations.

Understanding Rib Injuries
Rib injuries can range from minor bruises to fractures, and they can significantly affect your breathing and overall comfort. The ribs protect vital organs, including the lungs and spleen, and any injury in this area can lead to complications if not properly assessed and treated.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Severe Pain: If you are experiencing severe pain that worsens with movement or deep breathing, this could indicate a more serious injury, such as a fracture. Pain that requires you to bend over to breathe comfortably is concerning and should prompt a return to the hospital.

2. Difficulty Breathing: If you find it increasingly difficult to breathe, or if you experience shortness of breath, this is a critical sign that you need immediate medical attention. Rib injuries can lead to complications like pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or hemothorax (blood in the chest cavity), which can be life-threatening.

3. Swelling and Bruising: Significant swelling or bruising in the area of the injury can indicate a more severe injury. If the swelling continues to increase or if you notice any deformity, you should seek medical care.

4. Signs of Internal Injury: Given that you mentioned the area near the spleen, be aware of symptoms such as:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blood in urine or stool
These symptoms could indicate damage to internal organs and require immediate evaluation.

Monitoring Your Condition
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain. However, if the pain is unmanageable or if you find that the medication is not providing relief, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider.

- Rest and Avoid Strain: Allow your body to heal by avoiding activities that could exacerbate the injury. This includes heavy lifting, twisting motions, or any activity that puts strain on your torso.

- Breathing Exercises: While it may be painful, taking deep breaths is important to prevent complications like pneumonia. You can try to take slow, deep breaths while sitting or lying down, using pillows to support your body.

Conclusion
Given your current symptoms of severe pain, difficulty breathing, and swelling, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. While X-rays can identify obvious fractures, they may not detect small cracks or internal injuries. A follow-up visit may include further imaging, such as a CT scan, to assess for any complications.

In summary, listen to your body. If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms, do not hesitate to return to the emergency room. Your health and safety are paramount, and it is better to err on the side of caution when dealing with potential rib injuries.

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