Healing time for a bruised rib can take between two to six weeks.
A bruised rib is an injury to the rib, in which small blood vessels are torn and leak blood under the skin but the rib bone is not fractured. Because the bruise, also called a contusion, is on the rib it often cannot be seen although the injury that causes it may also cause bruising on the skin in the area of the bruised rib.
Most of the time, a bruised rib will heal on its own within two to six weeks.
What Are Symptoms of Bruised Ribs?
It may be difficult to tell if a rib is bruised or broken because symptoms can be the same, and may include:
Intense pain in the chest area Pain may be worse when inhaling, coughing, or sneezing Swelling or tenderness around the affected ribs Bruising on the skinSeek immediate medical care if you he:
Difficulty breathing A fever A new or worse cough New or worsening painWhat Causes Bruised Ribs?
A bruised rib, much like a broken rib, can be a result of an injury to the chest that can be caused by:
Falls A blow or hit to the chest Common in sports Severe coughing