What is Pulmonary Contusion

Pulmonary contusion is a deep bruise to the lung. The bruise causes the lung tissue to swell and bleed into the surrounding area.

The lungs will not work right if this happens. You may find it hard to breathe because you are not getting enough oxygen.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Do not take aspirin for the first few days. Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• Do your deep breathing exercises as told.
• Return to your normal activities as told by your doctor. Talk with your doctor about:
  • What activities are safe for you.
  • When you can return to driving, work, school, and sports.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.

Contact a doctor if:

• You have shaking chills.
• You cough up thick spit (mucus).

Get help right away if:

• You have trouble breathing, and it gets worse.
• Your chest pain gets worse.
• You cough up blood.
• You make high-pitched whistling sounds when you breathe (wheeze).
• Your lips or nails look blue.
• You feel dizzy or you feel like you may pass out (faint).
• You feel confused.
• You have a fever.