Are my symptoms rib cramping or bloating?

I have just read an article on people with COPD who suffer from rib cramping. I have had COPD for about 14 years now. I get a tightness around the bottom of my ribs and have always put it down to pulled muscles or bruised ribs from exercise and/or coughing. This discomfort I can accept but I also have the feeling that someone has dumped a soggy football under my ribs or in my stomach. I have seen my GP and have had various tests and checks with nothing untoward showing up. My GP does not seem concerned but can not give me a reason for the feeling either. Having had lots of tests I am reasonably sure that there is nothing nasty going on but does anyone else have similar feelings? If I sit up straight it is not as intrusive. If I relax on the sofa I have to sit up and bend forward regularly to ease the pressure. Relaxing on my side is easier than laying on my back. It does not seem to matter if I have eaten or not. Maybe it is just week muscles that are the cause. I do not know but it is with me every day. Sorry this is a long article but I have never voiced my concerns/feelings to anyone before.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The COPD.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.