Bruised Sternum: Chest Injury Symptoms and First Aid Awareness in Canada

A bruised sternum occurs when the breastbone is injured due to a direct blow or trauma to the front of the chest. The sternum, together with the ribs, protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Because of this, any chest injury should be taken seriously.

In Canada, bruised sternums commonly occur during motor vehicle collisions, falls, sports injuries, and workplace accidents.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of a bruised sternum can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Pain or tenderness over the breastbone
• Visible bruising or swelling
• Chest pain that worsens with movement
• Pain when breathing deeply, coughing, or laughing
• Ongoing chest discomfort lasting days or weeks

Chest pain should never be ignored, as it may indicate a more serious injury such as a fracture or internal damage.

Common Causes of a Bruised Sternum

A bruised sternum is usually caused by blunt force trauma, including:

• Motor vehicle collisions (including seatbelt impact)
• Falls onto the chest
• Contact sports without proper protective equipment
• Direct blows during physical activity
• Severe or prolonged coughing episodes

Winter conditions in Canada can increase fall-related chest injuries.

First Aid Awareness for Chest Injuries

A bruised sternum cannot be diagnosed or treated with first aid, but first aid awareness is critical for recognizing serious chest injuries.

Key first aid principles include:

• Encouraging calm, steady breathing
• Limiting movement that increases chest pain
• Keeping the person at rest and comfortable
• Monitoring breathing and responsiveness

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care

Call emergency services immediately if any of the following occur:

• Severe or worsening chest pain
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain that radiates to the arms, back, or neck
• Bluish lips or fingernails
• Dizziness, weakness, or loss of consciousness

These symptoms may indicate fracture, lung injury, or heart involvement.

Why This Awareness Matters for Canadians

Chest injuries can look minor at first but worsen over time. Knowing when chest pain may signal a serious problem helps prevent complications and supports faster medical intervention.

First aid training in Canada emphasizes:

• Chest injury recognition
• Breathing assessment
• Early escalation to emergency care

Educational Disclaimer

This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Chest injuries require assessment by qualified healthcare professionals.