Ouch. My ribs hurt. What to do?

z's playa · Apr 10, 2005

Not too many answers huh? I'm guessing you have intercostal pain. Do you take anitinflammatories?

Salty1 · Apr 11, 2005

I have hurt my ribs. The left side of my ribs hurt from having to lift and turn heavy patients. I got a rib belt and it helps a little. If anyone has any suggestions to stop rib pain it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much :)

I would agree with Z's Playa. Was the onset of pain sudden or gradual over a period of time? I note it is confined to the area of the left rib cage. I too, would suspect intercostal irritation. What is the level of pain (1-10), character of the pain? Is the pain intermittent or steady? If you are having difficulty sleeping it is often helpful to sleep with the torso elevated at about a 45 degree angle such as in a recliner chair. This position is often recommended to patient's post MVA with "cracked" ribs.

Salty

Blackcat99 · Apr 13, 2005

Thanks so much Z's playa and salty. Yes it is intercostal pain. I have been taking Motrin and rubbing pain ointments on it. The pain is intermittent. It sometimes feels like someone has stabbed me with a knife. I'm going to buy a big foam wedge for my bed so I can elevate my torso. Thanks :kiss

CrunchRN, ADN, RN · Apr 13, 2005

I think you are not getting many answers due to the liability issue. Have you seen an MD? I know you probably feel you do not need to, but most people will not be comfortable giving advice to you until anything worrisome has been ruled out. Good luck and i hope you are better soon.

Blackcat99 · Apr 14, 2005

Thanks CrunchRN. I am starting to feel much better today. I had a good 8 hour sleep last night and I think that really helped. :wink2:

Blackcat99 · Apr 22, 2005

My left rib pain came back again and it hurts so bad. I went to the doctor and they charged me $390. I have no insurance. They took my blood, urine and xrays of kidney,ureters and bladder. They said my blood and urine results are fine. They will know the results of my x-rays tonight or tomorrow. He gave me a prescription for 2 dulcolax and a fleets enema. He said my x-ray said I was full of it. Anyway, if it is just constipation I wanted to let everyone know about this. If you are having left rib pain try some dulcolax and enemas before you pay $390. :crying2: