He has to cough, or he will end up getting pneumonia. Coughing is VERY PAINFUL, therefore he tries not to cough. His bruised ribs may take weeks to heal. He fell in his walker and bruised his rib cage on the right side. He hugs a pillow and coughs anyway as easily as he can stand it. It is hard to be in a position where I can't do anything. I help him in all ways I can, but when he coughs and hurts, I feel helpless. I know it isn't about me, but I do love him.I have learned alot on this web site and this forum is great.