Symptoms of a Fractured Sternum in Jacksonville, FL
An injury to the sternum endangers more than just the bone itself. The sternum (or breastbone) protects the heart and lungs. Damage to the sternum can leave these essential organs vulnerable to injury.
The type of blunt force trauma that can happen during a car accident is the most common cause of a sternum fracture. Falls and sports injuries can also cause this type of damage.
The number of traumatic sternal fractures being diagnosed has been on the rise. According to one study, that increase can be attributed to doctors and patients having increased access to the necessary diagnostic technology.
Recognizing the Symptoms of a Sternal Fracture
If you have fallen in a construction accident or sustained a blow to the chest under any circumstance, getting medical care is crucial. Injury symptoms can be subtle but worsen with time. For the sake of your health, it’s important to see a doctor right away and begin any necessary medical treatments as soon as possible.
The symptoms of a sternum fracture include:
- Localized chest pain that does not radiate into the arms
- Bruising
- Sudden pain at the front of the chest following an impact accident
- Difficulty taking full, deep breaths
- Pain while sneezing or coughing
The symptoms of a bruised sternum are similar to those of a fractured sternum, but the condition is less serious. A doctor will use a CT scan, ultrasound, or a specialized X-ray to confirm if the bone is broken or bruised.
The treatment for a broken sternum is generally the same as treatment for a bruised sternum. Both conditions require rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Painkillers may be prescribed if needed. In the case of a broken sternum, surgery may be needed if bone fragments are displaced.
Ignoring the symptoms of a broken sternum could threaten your health. Without a proper diagnosis, you might be required to return to work, which may delay or complicate healing. If you decide to file a lawsuit because your injury was caused by another person’s negligence, failing to seek medical care will weaken your case.
Is a Fractured Sternum Serious?
Yes. The bone fracture itself can cause serious chest pain, but the complications associated with a sternum fracture present the greatest risks. Because it is painful to cough, people with a sternum fracture resist coughing. Coughing is how humans clear lung secretions. The risk of developing a chest infection increases with a sternum injury.
Many people fail to follow up with a medical appointment after a car accident or other type of injury. A lack of medical care can lead to improper healing and a condition called pseudarthrosis or “false joint.” If pseudarthrosis develops, corrective surgery may be required.
What Losses Can I Recover Due to a Sternum Injury?
The losses you incur after any type of work or vehicle accident, such as a motorcycle crash, depend on several factors. Some potential losses include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Current and future lost wages
- Treatment-related travel expenses
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
These losses may be compensated through a settlement or a court hearing.
A Fractured Sternum Is a Serious Matter
Many people don’t get the treatment they need or pursue legal compensation because their injury was “no big deal.” Even a non-emergency accident is still a very big deal. A fractured sternum can lead to serious complications, and the symptoms could be masking an additional injury.
If you have been involved in any type of impact accident, see a medical professional. That slight pain in your chest could be the result of an injury that will only get worse without treatment. Then, set up a free consultation with an attorney for help getting compensation from the responsible party.
Contact the Jacksonville Personal Injury Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W. Forsyth St. #170,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167