May also be called: Bruise
A contusion (kun-TOO-zhun), or bruise, of the chest is an injury
to the skin and underlying tissue of the chest.
More to Know
A contusion, or bruise, forms when soft tissue in the body is crushed but the skin
doesn't break. When this happens, blood from broken capillaries (small blood vessels)
near the skin's surface may leak out under the skin. With no place to go, the blood
gets trapped, often forming a red or purplish mark that hurts when you touch it.
As a contusion heals, it may turn different colors, from red and purple to black
and blue and then to green, yellow, and light brown before fading away.
Keep in Mind
Applying a cold compress to a contusion may help minimize swelling and bruising.
Seek medical attention if a
contusion doesn't heal or continues to be painful.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical
experts.
