A compression injury is caused by the sudden and severe circumferential compression of the rib cage.

It can be caused by a motor vehicle accident, cave-in, fall, or other source of severe blunt chest injury.

Signs and symptoms of a compression injury include the following.

a. Multiple rib fractures, which may included a flail chest.

b. A feeling of increased pressure within the chest.

c. Distended neck veins.

d. Bulging eyes.

e. Pulmonary contusion.

f. Severe respiratory distress.

g. Cyanosis.