Also known as: Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse partially or completely. It causes sudden chest pain and breathlessness.
Primary spontaneous pneumothorax typically occurs in tall, thin young men aged 15-30 without obvious lung disease. It results from rupture of small air-filled blebs on the lung surface.
Secondary pneumothorax occurs in patients with underlying lung disease (COPD, asthma, pneumonia) and is generally more dangerous.
Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening emergency where trapped air progressively compresses the heart and opposite lung, requiring immediate needle decompression.
People with Pneumothorax often experience the following symptoms.
Sharp, one-sided chest pain that worsens with breathing, often starting at rest.
Breathlessness ranging from mild to severe depending on the size of the pneumothorax.
Rapid heart rate as a compensatory response to compromised lung function.
On auscultation, breath sounds are diminished or absent on the affected side.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Pneumothorax.
Common approaches to managing pneumothorax. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Small, stable pneumothoraces in otherwise healthy patients may resolve with rest and monitoring.
Insertion of a needle to remove trapped air, often sufficient for first-episode primary pneumothorax.
Insertion of a tube connected to underwater seal to continuously drain air for larger or persistent pneumothoraces.
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to seal the air leak and prevent recurrence, especially after second episode.
Chest X-ray showing lung edge separated from chest wall. CT scan for small pneumothoraces or to plan surgery. Ultrasound for bedside detection in emergency settings.
Seek emergency care for sudden sharp chest pain with breathing difficulty. Tension pneumothorax (progressive breathlessness, low blood pressure, deviated trachea) is immediately life-threatening.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening pneumothorax.
Stop smoking (reduces recurrence by 40%)
Avoid scuba diving and unpressurised flight after pneumothorax
Consider surgical pleurodesis after second episode
Avoid extreme altitude changes
If left untreated or poorly managed, pneumothorax may lead to:
Small pneumothoraces can resolve with rest. Larger ones require intervention to remove trapped air.
Recurrence risk is 30-50% after a first episode. Surgical pleurodesis after a second episode reduces this to under 5%.
Wait at least 2 weeks after confirmed resolution. Cabin pressure changes can trigger recurrence.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.