Broken or bruised ribs

Symptoms of broken or bruised ribs are very similar. They include pain, swelling or bruising in your chest. The pain may be worse when breathing in.

Broken or bruised ribs are usually left to heal naturally. Painkillers and ice packs (or a bag of frozen peas in a tea towel) can help with the pain.

Broken or bruised ribs are common chest injuries usually caused by a fall, a blow to the chest or severe coughing.