The impact of a car accident can hit you just about anywhere on your body and created a localized injury. For instance, if you strike your head, you generally have to worry about a brain injury. However, if the collision impacts your chest, you might have to check for a myocardial contusion.
According to Healthline, a myocardial contusion is when you suffer bruising to your heart muscle. Traumatic events such as falls or automobile crashes can cause this to happen. Since a myocardial contusion can be life-threatening without treatment, it is important to be alert to possible symptoms.
Chest symptoms
Since a myocardial contusion happens due to chest trauma, sharp pain in your rib area may be a strong indicator, particularly if you suffered one or more broken ribs. The impact could also increase your heart rate or make it sound irregular, or you may experience shortness of breath.
Feelings of weakness
The aftermath of a myocardial contusion can make you feel tired, perhaps more fatigued than usual. Severe skin tenderness, lightheadedness and weakness may also result. Sometimes a myocardial contusion produces nausea and vomiting.
Heart attack symptoms
Keep in mind that a severe heart contusion can produce symptoms identical to a heart attack. In addition to chest pain, nausea and shortness of breath, you could also experience pain in your shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
Whether you experience a heart attack or a myocardial contusion, you are likely in need of medical attention. Fortunately, many people who suffer a myocardial contusion can receive stabilizing care and go on to live fulfilling and long lives.