Seeking a Second Opinion After My Injury
I’m a 27-year-old male who had a fall last Friday, landing awkwardly on a rock, which resulted in severe pain. Afterward, I rushed to the Accident & Emergency department, where an X-ray was conducted. The doctor reviewed the results and declared that he saw nothing alarming, diagnosing me with a bruised sternum. Interestingly, I should mention that the X-ray technician seemed unfamiliar with the procedure for capturing images of the sternum and had to consult a colleague in an adjacent room for guidance. As it stands, the discomfort persists at the same intensity as it did on the day of the incident, even now over a week later. My friends have been suggesting that I return for a second opinion. However, I’m hesitant and feel that I’d just be inconveniencing the medical staff, thinking that returning wouldn't be beneficial. I believe that the management of a bruised sternum is practically similar to that of a fractured one, so I question the necessity of revisiting. I appreciate your feedback in advance!
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 5:30:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel uncertain after an injury, especially when you're experiencing persistent pain. Here are the main points regarding your situation:
Persistent discomfort following your fall could indicate more than a simple bruise, and returning for a second opinion is a reasonable and important step to consider. Notably, your pain has continued at the same intensity for over a week, which may merit further evaluation.
Explanation:
A bruised sternum typically means there's some soft tissue injury that can take time to heal, but continuous severe pain can sometimes suggest a possible fractured sternum or additional injury that may not have been caught on the initial X-ray. It's important to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management to avoid complications.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily record of your pain level, what increases or decreases it, and any other symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. This information can help in further evaluations.
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Consider a Second Opinion: It’s not unusual to seek a second opinion after an injury, particularly when pain persists. Doctors understand that patients want to feel secure in their diagnosis and treatment. Return to either the same facility with your concerns or visit another healthcare provider.
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Rest and Comfort: Until you can consult with a healthcare provider, rest and avoid activities that worsen your pain. Applying ice to the affected area for up to 20 minutes a few times a day can help reduce discomfort.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to manage your discomfort, but be sure to follow the recommended dosages.
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Follow-Up: If your symptoms worsen—such as increased pain intensity, breathing difficulties, or any new symptoms arising—seek medical attention urgently.
Remember, communicating your ongoing pain and concerns is key to receiving the right care. You're not inconveniencing anyone; rather, you're advocating for your health. If you have further questions or need specific guidance on managing your discomfort, feel free to ask!
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