When it comes to chest pain after a car accident, there are several potential underlying causes that should be considered. One possible cause is injury to the ribs or lungs due to blunt force trauma from the impact of the collision. This type of injury can cause sharp or dull sensations in the chest region, which may worsen with breathing or coughing. Bruised muscles, fractured ribs, and even pneumothorax (air trapped in the space between the lungs) may also contribute to chest discomfort following a motor vehicle crash.
Other potential causes include:
Fractures of the sternum: These injuries can occur when the chest is subjected to trauma, such as when the body is thrown against the seatbelt or the interior of the vehicle.
Internal bleeding: Internal bleeding can occur when an organ or blood vessel is damaged, causing blood to leak into the body cavity. Internal bleeding can cause chest pain and may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Heart attack: A heart attack is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle. Chest pain is a common symptom of a heart attack.
In addition to physical injuries, psychological factors such as stress and anxiety caused by the traumatic event can also result in chest discomfort. The shock of being involved in an accident can lead to an adrenaline surge that intensifies feelings of tightness or soreness in the chest area. If left untreated, this type of distress could potentially lead to heart issues such as hypertension or cardiac arrhythmia.