A breast contusion is simply a bruise involving the tissue of the breast due to a direct blow to the area such as struck by a ball or being elbowed when playing contact sports. A direct hit on the breast will cause rupturing of the small blood vessels and bleeding inside the breast that result to bruising of the skin and underlying tissues. Both males and females are susceptible to breast contusion.
A blow to the breast can also damage the fatty tissues of the breast. If the blow is strong enough, some the tissues may die or undergo necrosis which can result to fibrosis or formation of scar tissues.
Symptoms of breast contusion
- Redness and pain on the affected breast or nipple
- Swelling, tenderness and discoloration of the area such as blue and black
- Bruising of the area
- The affected breast appears swollen compared with the other breast
- Damaged skin
- Fever and inflammation
- Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes in the breast
Treatment
- Rest the affected area in a comfortable position immediately to prevent making the condition worse. If the person is flat on his/her stomach after the impact, roll him/her to a supine position with the face and torso facing up.
- Apply an ice pack to the area to lessen the swelling and pain for at least 30 minutes and then remove for 15 minutes to allow the skin to warm up again.
- Place a heating pad, hot water bottle or a warm towel on the affected area for 15-20 minutes to lessen swelling and promote healing of the breast contusion. Avoid prolonged application of heat on the area to prevent worsening of the condition.
- Perform interval application of cold and warm on the area for at least 3 hours.
- Compress the affected area with an elastic bandage to minimize bleeding of the breast and the surrounding tissue. Wrap the affected area gently by starting at the bottom of the injured area and continue until it is above the area. Do not wrap too tight to avoid any disruption in the blood circulation. If there is numbness, cramping and severe pain, remove the bandage and let the area rest.
- Elevate the affected breast to lessen the swelling and pain. Lie in an inclined position and place a firm support at the back.
- Ice massages the area using circular movement around the affected breast for at least 15 minutes for 3-4 times every day.
- Provide an over-the-counter pain medication to lessen the swelling and pain.
Disclaimer / More Information
The material posted on this page on a breast contusion is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage muscle injuries including a breast contusion by taking a first aid and CPR class with one of our training providers.