Chest injuries are some of the most serious types of injuries caused by accidents. These injuries can involve damage to the ribs, lungs, or heart, resulting in significant pain, restricted mobility, and potential long-term or life-threatening complications.
At JSM Injury Firm APC, we are committed to helping those who have experienced chest injuries due to the negligence of others. With a risk-free, no-fee guarantee, your highly skilled Anaheim personal injury lawyer is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Here is more about the common causes, types, and treatments for chest injuries so you can better understand your legal options.
Common Causes of Chest Injuries
Chest injuries can occur in a variety of situations, often due to significant external trauma or sudden impact. Understanding the causes of these injuries can help determine whether negligence contributed to the accident. Below are some of the most common causes of chest injuries:
Car accidents – Chest injuries frequently occur in car accidents due to seatbelt pressure, airbag deployment, or striking the dashboard.
Workplace accidents – Falling objects, machinery malfunctions, or slip and fall incidents are common causes of chest injuries in the workplace.
Sports accidents – Chest injuries are common in contact sports such as football, hockey, or martial arts, where collisions frequently occur.
Types of Chest Injuries
Chest injuries can range from mild bruises to considerable trauma that requires immediate medical attention. Many of these injuries qualify as catastrophic injuries due to their long-term impact on physical health and quality of life. According to the National Library of Medicine, some of the most common types of chest injuries include:
Broken or Fractured Ribs
Blunt force trauma, such as a car accident or fall, often causes broken ribs. These injuries result in significant pain, difficulty breathing, and potential complications like lung punctures.
Collapsed Lung (Pneumothorax)
A collapsed lung occurs when air escapes into the space between the lung and chest wall, often due to trauma. This condition can lead to sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, and reduced oxygen levels. Emergency treatment, such as inserting a chest tube, is often required to restore lung function.
Cardiac Contusions
A cardiac contusion occurs when the heart muscle is bruised due to a significant impact, such as a high-speed collision. Symptoms include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
Diagnosing and Treating Chest Injuries
Proper diagnosis and treatment are critical for addressing chest injuries effectively. Medical professionals use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the severity of the injury and determine the best course of action.
Doctors often use X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to identify fractures, internal bleeding, or organ damage. These imaging tools provide detailed insights into the extent of the injury. In some cases, ultrasounds, blood tests, and physical exams may be required to detect complications not visible on scans.
Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the chest injury. For minor injuries, such as bruised ribs, doctors may recommend rest, pain management, and restricted activity. Severe injuries, such as internal bleeding or collapsed lungs, often require emergency interventions, including surgery or the insertion of chest tubes.
Contact Our Legal Team for Help with Your Chest Injury Claim
If you suffered a chest injury, you may be facing significant pain and uncertainty about your future. A collapsed lung caused by a car accident or broken ribs from a workplace incident could leave you struggling to cover medical expenses while missing time from work.
Our team at JSM Injury Firm APC is here to provide the guidance and support you need to recover physically and financially. So fill out our quick contact form or call us to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation as soon as today.
