If you have a bruised rib, there are several things you can do to help relieve pain and discomfort as you heal:
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Rest: Resting and restricting your activities are the main treatment options for bruised ribs.
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Ice: Applying an ice pack to the injured area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
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Pain relief: You can take over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), to help manage your pain.
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Breathing: Try to breathe normally and cough when you need to. This helps clear mucus from your lungs to prevent chest infections.
Its important to watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if your pain has not improved within a few weeks, youre coughing up yellow or green mucus, or you have a very high fever.
