Any severe or sharp chest pain after a car accident requires an immediate evaluation and diagnosis. Only a medical provider can determine if you are experiencing an emergency situation related to your heart or a less serious one that will improve with treatment. Of course, chest pain is often associated with heart attacks. If you think the physical and emotional stress of the accident is affecting your heart, emergency medical care is required. Even less severe, achy or lingering pain in the chest requires a doctor’s attention. Car accident chest pain often occurs after contact with a steering wheel or the tight restriction of a seat belt during the crash. Discomfort, ranging from intensely sharp to dull, can be caused by:
- Rib fractures
- Bruised ribs
- Strained muscles
- Internal injuries to heart or organs
Bruising from a steering wheel normally leads to a dull ache in the chest area. Sharper pain in the ribs after the crash may signal a broken rib. A fractured rib can also be accompanied by pain when breathing or moving. Pain in the chest after an accident, which occurs with other symptoms, could indicate a more severe internal injury. These secondary symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Problems with breathing
- Head pain
- Fatigue
Be sure to keep a record of all medical care received after a collision whether it is by paramedics or a primary care provider. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide you in deciding if your chest pain symptoms following an auto accident warrant filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit. A free consultation with one of our firm attorneys can be helpful in determining your next course of action. Whether your accident involved vehicles or a pedestrian auto injury, call us for a Free Consultation.