I'm really concerned because every morning when I wake up, my ribs hurt, and sometimes it gets worse with each breath. It feels really unbearable, and I'm just not sure what to do since obviously, I can't stop breathing. What could be causing this, and how can I find relief?
This type of pain in the ribs that worsens with breathing could be due to inflammation of the muscles between the ribs, a condition known as costochondritis. To help alleviate the pain and inflammation, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (e.g. Advil) or naproxen (e.g. Aleve) at the recommended dosage. Additionally, applying a warm compress to the area and practicing deep breathing exercises may also provide some relief. If the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.