I have noticed that my right lower rib is slightly more swollen or protruding than my left side. When I perform machine exercises and apply pressure on it, I feel discomfort or pain in the right rib area. However, when I touch it or apply pressure manually, there is no discomfort. What could be causing this and how can I address it?

September 7th, 2023

I am a 36-year-old mother of three currently in the hospital with an ongoing asthma attack since February 16. My X-ray shows streaking and extra spacing between the ribs, possibly indicating trapped air. I am experiencing severe shortness of breath, frequent coughing, wheezing, and weakness, but no fever or rash. I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which affects my organs. What does the X-ray abnormality mean, and what further tests should I undergo?

February 10th, 2023

I am concerned for my husband. He is 54 years old, weighs 320 pounds, and has high blood pressure that ranges from 168/100 to as high as 200/125 when excited or stressed. He believes he is not in crisis when his numbers are at 168/100, but I believe he is. Should I insist on taking him to the ER? He currently has no primary care physician (PCP) and his appointment is a few weeks out. Can you give me some guidance?

June 10th, 2024

I have a broken collarbone and would like an opinion on the X-ray. I am experiencing localized pain and some bruising. I fell during a trail run two days ago, landing on my shoulder, and moving my arm hurts. I am taking tramadol 3x daily. I went to urgent care and they took an X-ray but were not very clear about what to do next other than wearing a sling. I am going to an orthopedic doctor on Thursday, but can you evaluate the X-rays in the meantime to give me a better idea of how well the fracture might heal and if there are fragments?

January 15th, 2023

I went to urgent care twice for a bad cold and flu, received medications including Tamiflu, doxycycline, cough syrup, and Zofran for nausea. Despite this, my husband and I still feel weak, have chest congestion, wheezing, and rib pain from coughing. We are using Advair but still wheeze. Is this normal, and what additional steps should we take?

December 13th, 2024