sidemurtumisessa

Sidemurtumisessa, known in English as a broken rib, refers to a fracture in one or more of the bones that form the rib cage. The rib cage is a protective structure made of 12 pairs of ribs that encloses and protects the vital organs of the chest, such as the heart and lungs.

Rib fractures are most commonly caused by direct trauma to the chest, such as from a fall, a blow in contact sports, or a motor vehicle accident. Less frequently, they can result from severe coughing or other forceful muscle contractions, particularly in individuals with weakened bones.

Symptoms of a broken rib typically include sharp pain at the site of the fracture, which worsens with breathing, coughing, sneezing, or movement. Bruising and swelling may also be present. In severe cases, a fractured rib can puncture a lung, leading to a condition called pneumothorax, or cause bleeding in the chest cavity, known as hemothorax.

Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging tests like X-rays. In some instances, a CT scan may be used for more detailed assessment.

Treatment for a simple rib fracture generally focuses on pain management and allowing the bone to heal naturally. This can involve over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, and sometimes nerve blocks for severe pain. Breathing exercises are encouraged to prevent complications like pneumonia. In cases of severe injury with associated organ damage, more extensive medical intervention may be required. Most rib fractures heal within four to six weeks.