Moderate left flank pain

No I am an emergency medical technician (emt). I haven't gone to the doc yet. I have a lump/bulge over one of my lower ribs, with minor swelling. But the pain is starting to radiate and is getting worse. I just can't think of how i could've injured a rib and the pain started randomly.

Maybe you have Tietze syndrome which causes pain and swelling at the juncture of your ribs and breastbone. It is similar to costochondritis which causes pain in the same area but doesn't result in swelling.  I got costochondritis suddenly after a long bout of stress.

Interesting idea, I didn't think about that. Definitely a possibility!

Although the pain is on my side, not at my breast bone.

Maybe the pain below your ribs is radiating up to your side.  Costochondritis Tietze syndrome pain can be down the front of your ribcage, beneath your ribs, sides and round your back.

Swelling increased so I decided to get checked. 2 cracked/fractured ribs, apparently from all of the coughing I've been doing lately with the infections I've had. Thanks a lot for your help!! Just going to take time to heal!

My brother and my uncle's partner both cracked their ribs when coughing from a chest infection.  Glad you found out what it was.

No heartburn. I'll keep that in mind though thank you!

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