Do you have to go to the doctor if you think..?

Question

you have a bruised rib?

this may sound dumb because people dont go to the doctor if something is bruised..

but i think my rib is bruised so i dont know if i should try icing it on my own and taking some medication to get the pain to go or if i should go to the doctor to do an xray just in case?

i assume that if it was broken or fractured i would be in alot more pain..so idk...

should i try to just sit at home and ice it or you think i should go to the doctor just in case? it hurts really bad to breathe, i cant take full breaths.

so what do you guys think i should do--it seems to be getting a little worse now than yesterday.

thanks for your input and advice! :)

Answer 1

I'd check with a doctor just in case, but it's up to you.

Answer 2

The difficulty with this is that each persons body and pain tolerance is different.

Its not something I recommend ignoring... its best for you to see your doctor. Let them know when booking the appointment what is going on with you... this way you can get in the same day.

Answer 3

Best advice since you are not a doctor;

Get a doctor's opinion on whether it is bruised or cracked.  it mat not be broken but if it is cracked you run the risk of a lung puncture if you fall or get punched.

It might not ordinarily break , but now that you have injured it, you cannot be sure and I wouldn't want to bet my life on the cost of an x-ray; would you?