Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax, also called a collapsed lung, occurs when air leaks into the space between your lung and chest wall causing pressure. This pressure from air building up and pushing on the outside of the lung causes it to give way and collapse.

The collapsing of the lung prevents the lung from expanding when inhaling.   Pneumothorax can be a complete lung collapse or only a portion of the lung.

Accidents, lung disease, illness, and changes in air pressure while participating in flying, mountain climbing or scuba diving have all been known to cause lung collapse.

Symptoms of pneumothorax may hardly be noticeable at first and can be confused with other disorders and can vary from mild to life-threatening and may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain, which may be more severe on one side of the chest
• Sharp pain when inhaling
• Pressure in the chest that gets worse over time
• Blue discoloration of the skin or lips
• Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing
• Confusion or dizziness

Diagnosis is done through a physical exam and chest x-ray.  

Most forms of pneumothorax require medical attention. The extent of this medical attention can vary as much as the disorder itself.

The standard medical treatment usually involves inserting a small tube between the ribs or under the collarbone to release the gas that has built up. This will slowly decompress the lung.

Some people may need oxygen if their lung capacity is deficient.

Surgical treatment may be necessary in some cases, especially in individuals who have had repeated pneumothoraces.

Very small pneumothoraces may heal without any treatment and can heal under supervision without taking any medical or surgical action.