Definition:
A term used by medical professionals when they are speaking about a person who is having difficulty breathing. It is most commonly seen in people with asthma, but may also be seen in children or adults who have a respiratory illness and are having difficulty breathing.
When looking at the chest of a person with retractions, one may noticed a skeletal appearance. The skin pulls in and out between each rib with each breath, and you may be able to "count ribs."
Also Known As: Intercostal retracting
