pain after Heimlich maneuver - ? broken ribs

[Scout123mh]

I choked today at a restaurant (could not talk or breathe for 2 minutes at least).  4 people tried to do the Heimlock maneuver (3 of those people were certified) with no success.  Finally a 5th person who was a customer at the restaurant did it successfully.  I seem to be in severe pain now.  The paramedics that arrived there (the restaurant called 911) said that I would feel pain in the next few days due to the "espophagus being traumatized" but now I think it may be a broken rib (or ribs).  I am 52 year old female but look really young and generally healthy except for being somewhat overweight.  Now I am afraid of bleeding inside or something.  Should I be worried or just wait it out?  (I refused to go to the hospital when this happened earlier today because by the time the ambulance came, I could breathe and talk again (somewhat).   What should I do?

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Yes most fractures heal by themselves. You just have to be careful enough to immobilize the fractured part, in your case you can wear a belt and take calcium supplements.
Good to know you are improving. Take care!

[Scout123mh]

Thank-you for your response. The OTC pain killer is helping (Aleve) and am no long in severe pain.  I remember one of the paramedics said I would have pain due to the "esophagus being traumatized" but I guess didn't realize it would be that bad.  The severe pain was in my lower rib cage and came about after this incident, progressively getting worse.  It is now getting better.  Thanks so much for your imput.  BTW, if I do have a rib fx or partial fx, will it heal on it's own??

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,
Where exactly do you feel the pain? Is it a localized pain or a generalized one?
Exact cause can be identified only after clinical examination. I would suggest you to get an X ray of chest done to rule out rib fracture.
Meanwhile please take OTC pain killers and alternate heat and ice therapy to relieve pain. Do keep us posted!