i was punched in the chest area above my left breast, but below the clavicle. No bruising, but tender to touch, and hurts when I laugh, cough and sneeze. It happened 4 days ago. is it probably just bruised internally, or am I still at risk for a collapsed lung or pneumothorax?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation and problem. You are having blunt chest trauma. And following are the possible complications of blunt chest trauma which can cause pain on coughing and laughing. 1. Rib fracture.2. Pulmonary contusions. 3. Pneumothorax4. Muscular injury. So get done chest x-ray to rule out all these possible complications. If chest x-ray is normal then no need to worry about pulmonary contusions and pneumothorax. Your ARD having mostly muscular injury. So try to follow these steps for better symptomatic relief. 1. Avoid strenuous exercise. 2. Avoid heavyweight lifting3. Start painkiller and muscle relaxant. 4. Apply warm water pad on affected site. Don't worry, you will be alright.