A bruised sternum, or sternal contusion, is an injury to the breastbone located in the center of the chest. This condition occurs when the sternum and surrounding tissues experience trauma, leading to damage to small blood vessels beneath the skin. The injury results in localized pain and tenderness in the affected area. While generally not life-threatening, a bruised sternum can significantly impact daily activities and cause discomfort.
How a Sternum Bruise Occurs
A bruised sternum results from a direct impact or blunt force trauma to the chest. Common scenarios include motor vehicle accidents, where the chest might strike the steering wheel or dashboard, or where the seatbelt applies significant pressure. Sports injuries, especially in high-impact contact sports, also lead to this type of injury. Falls where a person lands directly on their chest can also cause a sternal contusion.
In rare instances, a bruised sternum can develop from repetitive strain or unusually forceful actions. For example, severe and prolonged coughing episodes can contribute to bruising in the sternal area.
Recognizing a Bruised Sternum
The primary indicator of a bruised sternum is localized pain directly over the breastbone, which often begins immediately after the injury. This pain can be sharp and intense, worsening with deep breaths, coughing, sneezing, or movements like rotating the torso. The affected area will exhibit tenderness when touched.
Other visible signs can include swelling around the sternum and, in some cases, discoloration of the chest skin, appearing as a bruise. Stiffness in the chest area can also be present, making certain movements uncomfortable. These symptoms are important for an individual to recognize.
Getting a Diagnosis and Treatment
A healthcare professional diagnoses a bruised sternum through a physical examination, assessing the chest for tenderness, swelling, and any visible bruising. While a bruised sternum itself does not show on standard X-rays, imaging tests like a chest X-ray are performed to rule out more serious injuries, such as a sternal fracture or other underlying chest trauma. In some cases, a CT scan may be used for a more detailed assessment, especially if there is suspicion of associated internal injuries.
Treatment for a bruised sternum primarily involves conservative measures to manage pain and facilitate healing. Rest is advised, meaning avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain or put pressure on the chest. Applying ice packs to the injured area for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are recommended to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Healing and Important Considerations
The healing timeframe for a bruised sternum varies depending on the severity of the contusion, ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months. During recovery, continue pain management strategies and gradually return to normal activities as pain subsides. Avoiding heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and any movements that strain the chest helps prevent re-injury or prolonged healing. Maintaining good posture and using a pillow to support the chest when coughing can also provide comfort.
Seek further medical attention if symptoms worsen, new symptoms appear, or if the pain remains severe and persistent despite self-care measures. Signs such as increasing shortness of breath, dizziness, excessive sweating, or pain radiating to the jaw or arm may indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate evaluation. Following medical advice and monitoring symptoms are important for a full recovery.