Does coughing cause pain in cases of rib soft tissue injury?
Disease description:
My husband sustained a soft tissue injury to his ribs at work. He is now experiencing coughing—could the coughing cause pain in the rib soft tissues?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Rib cage soft tissue injury may cause pain during coughing. Coughing can exert traction on the ribs, thereby triggering pain. If the cough is caused by a viral infection, antiviral oral solutions, cough-suppressing and phlegm-resolving granules, or other medications may be taken under a physician’s guidance. Consuming nutrient-rich foods—such as eggs, pork rib soup, and beef—can help replenish nutrition and accelerate recovery. Regular follow-up visits to the hospital are recommended.
