By Kathleen MacNaughton, R.N., About.com
Updated: February 28, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
Definition: Intercostal retractions are what happens when the muscles between your ribs are pulled in sharply when you are having trouble breathing. They can be a sign that you are having an asthma attack.
Intercostal retractions are especially common in kids with asthma.
Source: Medline Plus
Also Known As: retractions of the chest muscles
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