A collapsed lung (Pneumothorax)
This painful condition occurs when air leaks into the space between the lungs and chest wall. A blunt or penetrating chest injury, certain medical procedures, or lung disease can cause a pneumothorax.
Symptoms include shortness of breath.
When a pneumothorax is large, a needle or tube is used to remove excess air.
Treatable by a medical professional
Requires a medical diagnosis
Lab tests or imaging always required
- Pain areas: in the chest
- Respiratory: fast breathing, shallow breathing, or shortness of breath
- Also, common: chest pressure, coughing, fast heart rate, or low oxygen in the body
- Treatment consists of supportive care and procedures – when a pneumothorax is large, a needle or tube is used to remove excess air
- Supportive care – oxygen therapy and Monitoring for changes or improvement
- Medical procedure – Chest tube
