Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services after a chest injury if you have:
Fainting, severe dizziness, confusion, or difficulty staying awake
New or worsening trouble breathing
Chest pressure or severe chest pain
A very fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat with weakness or dizziness
Pale, cold, clammy, or bluish skin
Coughing up blood or signs of severe internal bleeding
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
A forceful chest impact also needs prompt medical assessment even if symptoms seem limited, particularly after a high-speed collision, major fall, crush injury, or direct high-energy blow.
Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, breathless, or unwell.
After discharge, seek urgent advice for new palpitations, increasing breathlessness, fainting, worsening chest pain, or a clear decline in your ability to walk or carry out routine activities.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate if symptoms are steadily improving and no warning signs are present.
Attend planned appointments, especially if you had an abnormal ECG, raised troponin, reduced heart function, or another significant chest injury.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Myocardial contusion. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.