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Ribs mostly break as a result of falling on the chest.
Ribs mostly break as a result of falling on the chest. More infrequently, ribs can also break without external trauma if the patient has osteoporosis. In addition to pain, shortness of breath and sometimes even an impaired flow of blood (circulatory insufficiency) can occur. A single broken rib usually heals without complications, but if several ribs are fractured this is often accompanied by other injuries.
Sharp ends of ribs can injure neighbouring organs. The heart and aorta are at particular risk, which can be life-threatening.
Get a doctor to diagnose a rib fracture. Self-treatment is not recommended.
CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.