Even though the rib bones are sturdy and are linked together by bands of muscles, it's possible to break one or more ribs if you're hit hard in the chest. Broken ribs are painful and can hurt with every breath. And if they're broken badly they can seriously damage internal organs.

What happens if you leave a broken rib untreated?

When untreated, rib fractures will lead to serious short-term consequences such as severe pain when breathing, pneumonia and, rarely, death. Long-term consequences include chest wall deformity, chronic pain and decreased lung function.

Should I go to the ER for a broken rib?

If you've been hit hard enough in the chest to make you think you may have broken a rib or two, go to the emergency department or call 911. It's especially dangerous if the patient has any of the following signs or symptoms: Severe shortness of breath. Coughing blood.