Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I had the flu recently which lasted longer than normal for me (3 weeks) but 2 weeks ago I noticed my lower ribs hurting. I assumed I strained them coughing but we are now 2 weeks later and the pain is getting worse. Is there anything I can do or do I need to see my gp?
[|AI|]  Hello, More information is needed for a complete answer. I'll try to guess what's missing and give you the best answer that I can. You mentioned having flu, but you did not say anything about laboratory investigation. Was there a positive flu test? Did you have an X-ray? Is the pain one-sided? Is it worse when coughing or taking deep breaths? Do you have shortness of breath? What about fever? I would be more worried if you had ongoing fever (even low-grade), one-sided pain, getting worse when breathing particularly if you also felt you can't get enough oxygen. Sometimes inflammation may spread to the outer layer of the lung and cause pleuritic. The same can happen to the hearts lining layer (pericarditis). Besides the above, other serious complications may cause worsening rib pain. You definitely need a GP visit. If the aforementioned symptoms describe your case then you should see your GP right away. I hope you get well! Kind Regards!