Hello. I am 60 yrs old, overweight and vacationing in Kauai w family. We walk a slippery, rocky trail yesterday to see the Napoli Coast line. Breathtaking beautiful. I slipped going down some rocks, my elbow jammed into my left ribs and I heard it crack. I am breathing just fine, no visible bruising, but in quit a bit of pain. I have fractured my ribs before and it feels similar. My questions are: a) should I go to the medical clinic here on the island? b) I have a helicopter ride scheduled in about 4 hrs, would it be irresponsible to go because it my cause more damage? C) should I just be laying down or sitting in a chair for the next few days before returning to home in Pa or can I do reasonable activity although I am in pain (4 out of 10) - I am with my family and I am the major driver. Thanks for your advice.
Cellophane you for using Chat Doctor.I understand you question and concern. You may have a broken rib or ribs but as long as it is not causing you shortness of breath that is not emergent situation to go to the clinic right a way. You can take same pain medication and rest in the next days and do not interrupt the vacation. The bad signs that should alert you is shortness of breath that may be due to air or blood in the lungs and this is serious injury. Hope you recover quickly.