Slipping rib syndrome: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services for new or severe chest pain accompanied by:

   • Trouble breathing
   • Fainting, severe weakness, or confusion
   • Sweating, nausea, or a heavy pressure in the chest
   • Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, shoulder, or upper back
   • Coughing up blood
   • Blue or grey lips or skin
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice if pain follows a significant injury, or if you develop fever, visible swelling, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or worsening abdominal symptoms.

   These features are not typical of uncomplicated slipping rib syndrome and may need a different evaluation.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have recurring pain, clicking, or tenderness near the lower ribs.

   Assessment is especially useful if symptoms limit movement, disturb sleep, or continue despite simple self-care.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Slipping rib syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.