I fell off the top of a. Eight foot ladder on Friday. I landed on a stack of lumber. Left a terrible bruise on my chest. Went to the er and they told me that I didn t break any ribs and that I would be ok. But the pain has gotten worse, I m having a hard time breathing and Everytime I cough there is a loud pop in my center chest and it hurts terrible. What do I do?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. You are having blunt chest trauma. Apart from rib fracture, this kind of trauma can also cause pneumothorax, pulmonary confusions, musculoskeletal pain etc. And all these cause chest pain, breathlessness, coughing etc. So better to get done chest x-ray first. If chest x-ray is normal then no need to worry about these complications. Possibility of musculoskeletal pain is more. So avoid movements causing pain. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. Avoid bad postures in sleep. Take painkiller and muscle relaxant Chat Doctor.  Apply warm water pad on affected areas. Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.