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A hard hit baseball hit my chest just below me left nipple, ...

Sent to Health Experts July 02 12:32 PM

A hard hit baseball hit my chest just below me left nipple, about 8 days ago. I was able to have a pretty normal week. Originally I thought it was bruised, but the pain is sharp and not getting better (or worse). It hurts worst when I sneeze. I'm concerened I may have cracked or broken a rib. I doubt there is anything an outpatient visit will do other than xray and diagnose. Is this correct? What can I do at home to take care of this? Should I get an xray? If so why?

 

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
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July 2 1:45 PM (1 hour and 12 minutes and 22 seconds later)
         
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I would definitely be seen by a doctor. It sounds like you have a classic fractured or separated rib. They may or may not take an xray, and they'll probably treat you for a fracture even if the xray looks clean, as sometimes this doesn't show up on the xray. Because of the location, treatment will probably consist of rest and pain management until it heals. But it's important to make sure there isn't any other underlying condition that is causing the pain or is being caused by a possible rib fracture or separation.

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Lori
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Lori -- Health Advisor -- 99% Positive Feedback on 304 Health Accepts
16 yrs experience with a variety of complicated medical issues. Exercise and Nutrition Enthusiast.
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