Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] Hi. I had a cold for 2 weeks with severe coughing. The cough has gone away. But now i am left with a pain in my ribcage whenever i breathe in deeply. I thought i fractured my ribs when i was coughing. But the problem is that the pain is moving around. It is now making its way towards the sternum
[|AI|]  Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Coughing is a process in which ribs and intercostal muscles have to work hard. Since you had severe coughing, possibility of musculoskeletal pain due to straining on ribs and intercostal muscles is more. No need to worry about rib fracture. Do following things for better symptomatic relief. 1. Avoid heavyweight lifting and strenuous exercise. 2. Avoid bad postures in sleep. Avoid movements causing pain. 3. Take painkiller and muscle relaxant Chat Doctor.  4. Apply warm water pad on affected areas. Don't worry, you will definitely improve in 1-2 weeks. If not improving then get done chest x-ray to rule out internal damage. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.