A bruised lung, or pulmonary contusion, is a serious condition caused by traumatic injury that damages blood vessels, cells, and tissues in the lung, leading to internal bruising. Symptoms include pain, coughing up blood, and difficulty breathing. Diagnosis is confirmed through tests such as x-rays and ultrasounds, and treatment may include hospitalization, chest tubes, and ventilators.
A bruised lung, medically referred to as a pulmonary contusion, is a serious medical condition that often develops after a traumatic injury. The blood vessels, cells and tissues in the lung are damaged with this type of injury, leading to internal bruising. Some side effects of a bruised lung can include pain, coughing up blood, and difficulty breathing. A bruised lung is a serious condition that may require hospitalization and supportive care in order to preserve the patient’s life.
Pain is a common side effect of bruising in the lung. Chest pain can range from mild to severe and can get worse when breathing or even with mild physical activity. The risk of a heart attack is increased in those who have sustained a chest injury, so sudden or severe chest pain should be reported to a doctor right away. Pain medications are often prescribed for those with a pulmonary contusion.
When the lung is bruised, a small amount of blood can pool inside the lung. This can lead to coughing or spitting up blood. This symptom should always be reported to a doctor immediately, as internal bleeding can be potentially fatal. Difficulty breathing and cyanosis are also common with a bruised lung. Cyanosis is the medical term for a bluish tint to the skin.
Several diagnostic tests may be performed when a bruised lung is suspected to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the damage. Some of the more common tests include blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds. In many cases, supportive care in a hospital setting is needed until the patient becomes medically stable and can go home. Medical staff will provide detailed self-care instructions once the patient is discharged from the hospital.
After pulmonary contusion has been diagnosed, a chest tube may be needed to pump blood, air, or fluid from the chest cavity. The patient may need to be connected to a ventilator for breathing assistance until breathing becomes easier and to avoid organ damage due to lack of oxygen to various body tissues. This type of ventilation may include the use of a face mask or a tube that is inserted into the trachea. A special machine can be used to draw blood or other fluids out of the lungs. Pain medications and oxygen therapy are often used to treat complications from developing a bruised lung.
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