What is a sign of a rib fracture?

A sign of a rib fracture is the unwillingness to take a deep breath. This symptom occurs because the pain associated with a rib fracture often intensifies during deep inhalation. The injury can cause sharp, localized pain in the chest area, particularly when the injured individual attempts to expand their lungs fully. As a result, people with rib fractures may adopt rapid, shallow breathing patterns in an attempt to minimize discomfort, leading to their reluctance to take deeper breaths.

This behavior reflects a common physiological response to pain: the body instinctively avoids movements that exacerbate it. Therefore, recognizing this unwillingness can be vital for first responders or medical personnel in diagnosing potential rib fractures in victims following trauma.