Heart conditions that can be caused by trauma can range from minor to serious and can have long-term effects. For instance, chest trauma or a blow to the chest can result in a traumatic myocardial contusion. This can lead to ventricular arrhythmia, a potentially fatal condition in which the heart beats too rapidly, too slowly, or erratically.
Myocardial infarction, or a heart attack, can also be caused by trauma. Traumatic injury, such as a car accident, can cause the arteries leading to the heart to tear, allowing blood to flow into the heart and cause a heart attack.
In addition, trauma can cause aortic dissection. This occurs when a tear in the aorta creates a separation in the wall of the aorta, causing blood to leak out, and can lead to an aortic rupture. This is a very serious condition that can be life-threatening.
Finally, trauma can also cause pericardial effusion. This is a buildup of fluid around the heart that can lead to difficulty breathing and chest pain. In some cases, the fluid in the pericardial effusion can be infected, leading to inflammation, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
Overall, trauma can cause a variety of heart conditions, ranging from minor to serious. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms of a heart condition after a traumatic event.