humboldt'sroads

So today I took a really hard shot while snowboarding and completely lost consciousness for maybe 20 seconds. I didn't have a concussion but had the wind knocked out of me worse than I've experienced. I fell in front of my brother in some deep snow - he couldn't see me and hit me at full speed in my sternum. I remember asking him if he was OK then said "I'm in trouble, I can't breathe" and then came to some time later. He was in the exact same boat; not breathing and out cold. When I regained consciousness he was coming to as well but was in much better shape than I, as he delivered the blow. He kept riding after a break and I went to first aid for oxygen.

My question: I feel fine now (12 hours later) except for a really sore sternum and couple of ribs and am still pretty easily winded - is it safe to get in a good long road ride tomorrow as long as my breathing is close to normal, or is it advisable to wait a while? I'm training for a couple of really tough events next month and with all the rain we've had lately I need every hour I can get on the bike, especially in the hills. If there are any doctors or nurses that cruise the forum, I'd especially like your input. I got checked out by patrol but don't really feel it warrants a visit to the doctor - I just want to know if there's any danger to going out a little winded. Thanks.

Machka 

Any doctor or nurse worth his/her credentials will tell you exactly what I'm going to tell you now ... GO TO THE DOCTOR!

ratdog

Machka is right, go to the doctor! For that matter, perhaps the two of you should both go see the doctor if you both still are "winded".


I can't for the life of me see how "patrol" can tell that you don't you have internal bleeding or fractured ribs, both of which would cause some level of difficulty in breathing.

tortugaflats

say no to drugs

3v1lD4v3

A strong blow to the heart can cause it to stop or misfire. Be glad you're not dead. Go to the doctor to make sure there is no lasting damage.