Description

A pneumothorax is when the lung has collapsed due to air entering the space around your lungs (known as the pleural space). Air can enter the pleural space through an opening in your chest wall or in the lung. Air in the pleural space creates an increase in pressure around the lung and causes it to collapse. A pneumothorax can be severe, depending on how much air is trapped in the pleural space. A small amount of trapped air can usually resolve by itself, provided there are no other complications. Larger amounts of trapped air can be serious and lead to death if medical treatment is not obtained. What are the signs and symptoms of a pneumothorax? Symptoms of a traumatic pneumothorax typically occur during the period of trauma or just after. In contrast, symptoms of a spontaneous non-traumatic pneumothorax usually occur when the person is at rest. Sudden, severe chest pain is often the first symptom of a pneumothorax. Other symptoms include: Abnormally fast heart rate (known as tachycardia) Blue-tinged lips and skin Breathlessness on exertion Cold sweats Constant ache and tightness in the chest Difficulty catching your breath Sharp pain when breathing in, with fast and shallow breathing. What are the possible treatments for a pneumothorax? Treatment for a pneumothorax will depend on your symptoms, medical history and the severity of the pneumothorax. Treatment options can be both surgical and non-surgical and can include: Chest drain insertion – can be used to help remove excess air in the pleural space, enabling your lungs to expand fully again