Does this need medical attention? Feel like I've been kicked in the ribs!

[User24689]

I am quite anxious at the moment and DH is away so feeling worried. Recently recovered from nasty cough that lasted about a month. Have felt fine/ normal for a few days.

Yesterday I noticed that I felt like I had a bruise on my rib cage, around my side under my right breast. Was tender, expected to see a mark but nothing there. Didn't think much of it. Has steadily got worse. Kept me awake in the night as I felt it every time I moved. Now area of pain is larger, from under breast right around to the side. It feels like an injury, but I haven't done anything. I carry my toddler on that hip and it's really bothering me .

What's concerning me a bit is before the cough started I had a sharp pain really deep on that side when I breathed in. That's gone now. It just seems to have been a series of things.

Does anyone think I need to get to the doctor? It would be a big effort as I am on my own with a 4 and 1 year old and have no one who can help me!

It sounds like you could have pulled an intercostal muscle between your ribs. I did the same last week after a marathon mopping session.

What worked for me - anti- inflammatory painkillers, 20 mins hot water bottle on it, then 20 minutes ice pack, do as often as you feel the need.

Stretch- stand up straight, gently lift your arms above your head while breathing in and hold hands, then breath out while bending gently to the left to stretch your rib muscles, breath back in while bringing arms back above your head, breath out while bending to the right. Repeat as much as you are comfortable with.

4 days for me and now much better. Probably would have happened quicker but I still had to work, SE cleaner ouch, now I'm just getting the odd little stabbing pain there but I was nearly on the floor while hoovering on Thursday.

Hope this helps and that you feel better soon.