can you actually crack ribs in a coughing fit?

supporters so far (last 10):

[Close window]

helpful

credits: 50

Asked in biology, ribs, cough asked on: 07/24/2008 04:26pm

closed on: 07/31/2008 04:26pm

4 Answers

blacksmith81

Rank: Albert Einstein (21,094) | Biology (102)

16 minutes after the question was opened (07/24/2008 04:42pm)

Yes, but normally this only happens in those who suffer from some sort of skeletal disorder, eg Osteoporosis which make the bone brittle.

Supplement from 07/24/2008 04:57pm:

Although the incidence in those with normal Bone density is very low, it's not unknown.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16007893 copy

Question owner's rating:

Top

Rated as good answer by:

supporters so far (last 10):

Number of comments:

Rank: Doctorate (2,217)

3 hours after the question was opened (07/24/2008 07:12pm)

Yes it is possible, it happened to a friend of mine some years back, the coughing fit was pretty serious but nobody could understand why it left her in so much pain. It wasn´t until she saw the Dr the next day that TWO cracked ribs were discovered!!

Question owner's rating:

helpful

Rated as good answer by:

supporters so far (last 10):

Number of comments:

Rank: Novice (38)

7 days after the question was opened (07/31/2008 03:49pm)

http://www.ncemi.org/cse/cse0502.htm copy
this site may be of use for your answer. the following quote is taken directly from it
"A patient with an isolated rib fracture or a minor costochondral separation usually has a history of falling on the side of the chest, being struck by a blunt object, coughing violently or leaning over a rigid edge."

http://www.healthsquare.com/mc/fgmc2180.htm copy health square.com also backs up this statement
"Causes range from a fall or a blow to the chest to hard coughing or sneezing. "

Most sites agree that its more common in people with osteoperosis, but not uncommon with people suffering from bronchitus.
Seems a bit unpleasant thet you could have something that serious and have rib fracturing complications.