Protecting your lungs at home after a chest injury from a crash
How a trauma surgeon and a respiratory therapist help you keep your lungs working
After a chest injury or surgery, pain can make every breath feel like a chore. Some people start taking shallow breaths or hold back from coughing. A respiratory therapist helps teach breathing exercises. A trauma surgeon checks whether your injury and your pain plan let your lungs expand safely. The aim is to breathe well enough to heal without forcing yourself through severe pain. [1, 2]
Learn why you have a breathing plan
Ask if you have a broken rib, a lung injury or another condition that changes the plan. You may have been given an incentive spirometer, a handheld device that helps you take deep breaths. If so, ask someone to watch you use it. Write down how often to practice. Your discharge instructions set the schedule. [1, 2]
Sitting up straight and breathing slowly and deeply may help you use more of your lungs. Holding a pillow gently against a sore chest or incision may make coughing more comfortable. [1, 2]
Pain control is part of lung care
Tell your team if pain keeps you from taking a full breath, coughing or going for a short walk. Ask when to take your prescribed pain medicine in relation to your breathing exercises. Don’t wrap your chest tightly on your own, because a wrap can limit how your chest moves. Call promptly for advice if you’re too drowsy to practice or the medicine makes your breathing feel slower. [2]
Normal soreness versus a new problem
A bruised chest may hurt when you move or cough. Shortness of breath that’s getting worse, sharp pain when you breathe or a fever needs a prompt medical exam. Get emergency help for sudden, severe trouble breathing, fainting or lips that turn blue or gray. If something has clearly changed, don’t wait for your next scheduled visit to report it. [1, 2, 3]
Keep a short record of what you’re able to do. Note whether you can talk normally, walk to the bathroom and finish the breathing practice you were taught. These notes help your team more than just saying your chest feels bad. If your plan includes readings from a device, record them the way you were told. Don’t measure yourself against a number from someone else’s recovery. [1, 2]
- What lung or chest injury am I healing from?
- How often should I do my breathing practice or use my device?
- What change means I should call today, and what means emergency care?
Keep breathing instructions next to your pills
Sources and further reading
- 1MedlinePlus deep breathing after surgery
- 2MedlinePlus rib fracture aftercare
- 3MedlinePlus breathing difficulties first aid
The guidance here is general and draws on trauma and respiratory care. Get emergency care for new, severe trouble breathing, blue lips or chest pain with sudden shortness of breath.
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