Hi my dad has copd since 2010 he has only had 3 flare ups since being told he has copd but 2 days ago in began having severe pain in ribs area not on heart side that gradually moved up to arm pit and around the back his gap has ruled out fracture due to copd complication he has been prescribed anti inflamatories but the pain still really bad what else can we do
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. COPD (chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease) patients can complicate and develop pneumothorax (air in pleural cavity). This can cause sudden onset chest pain which is not relieved by routine painkillers. So better to get done chest x-ray. If chest x-ray is showing pneumothorax then he will need intercostal Chat Doctor. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your father. Thanks.