Punch in the chest

[Balon13]

In a quick response to grab the bleach bottle spilling out on the kitchen drug, I punched my chest (about an inch under my collar bone area) to the corner of the sink cabinet door. I felt the pain at that time but as the day went on I felt ok. But the next day I felt chest pain, noticed a reason size of bruise, it hurts when I talk, move my right arm, especially when I sneeze. Taking Tylenol & pain killer last couple of days seems to help but wondering should I see a doctor or just wait out for the pain to go away?!

[Londres70]

Keep us posted.  Hopefully the situation is resolved.

[fairyann]

I am a nurse also and have been for 20 years. Every treatment is not appropriate in each case, but my recommendation was certainly sound. Especially when giving advice on a site like this I tend to err on the side of conservatism, thus the warning against NSAIDS. Heat is often used to help with discomfort after the initial 24-48 hours and can also help to break up any hematoma that has formed.

[Balon13]

Thanks much for your response & your care. It's been a few days now but it still hurts when I do simple tasks that really concern me so I will try to see a doctor tomorrow. Hopefully nothing's serious.

[Balon13]

Thank you for your response. Yes, I'll see the doctor tomorrow since it's been a few days now & the pain is still there.

[Londres70]

Motrin is safe to use as a pain reliever in this case.   Bleeding issues pertain more so to ASPIRIN-containing products, NOT Motrin and then it is MORE specific to the GI system, i.e. stomach.  

As a nurse, I have NEVER seen bleeding issues related to Motrin, aspirin well, but not Motrin.  

I would NOT recommend putting HEAT on a bruise and swelling, ice well and that should have been done within the first 24 hours.  Heat will only aggravate the issue.  Heat on a bruise and swelling?......NEVER heard of that.

Keep us posted.

[fairyann]

Make sure that you are not using any products containing aspirin or NSAIDS (Motrin, Aleve), as these can make bleeding and bruising worse. Ice is best for the first 24 hours to decrease swelling and bruising, and after that using warm compresses (or muscle rubs) will help the body reabsorb the blood in the bruise. The pain you're feeling is probably injury to the muscle, but if it persists or if the pain is interfering with your normal activities or breathing you should get checked out by your doctor.

[Londres70]

Sounds like a terrible bruise.  Is the site swollen as well?  I can imagine it is.

I would try taking Motrin/Ibuprofen vs. Tylenol.  

When did you do this?

I would recommend you see a physician if this is not resolved within 48-72 hours.