is it the rib or lung

[skeeter0866]

a couple weeks ago i lifted grandkids n hot tub. i notice next day i was hurting in the ribs on right side. when i cough or breathe deep it hurts, i know they cant do nothing 4 ribs.. but my other question is also i have emphysema and also had a lung that went done and had surgery on it a few years ago. it isnt the same pain.. am a 45 bullhead women that hates 2 go 2 doctors. when i do move around alot i do get winded. i know all i have do is go get a xray done. but dont want 2 spend the money 2 do it.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a detailed description of the pain and occasionally a few tests including x-rays, it would be difficult to determine the cause of the pain. If it hurts to touch it is ‘more likely’ to be the ribs or else probably related to the lung/ pleura; though this is not a hard and fast rule. I would be best to get this evaluated by a primary care physician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!

[bunny281]

u should get it checked out because if it is something it might get worse. since it hasnt gone away already and u say its been a couple of weeks. better check it out with a doctor. hope u get better.