Pneumothorax

What is Pneumothorax?

A pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall (the pleural space). This air accumulation exerts pressure on the lung, preventing it from expanding fully during inhalation. The condition can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the amount of air and the underlying cause.

Who is Affected?

Pneumothorax can affect individuals of all ages. However, certain groups are more susceptible, including:

• Tall, thin individuals, particularly young men
• People with underlying lung diseases such as COPD, asthma, or cystic fibrosis
• Individuals with a history of smoking
• Patients undergoing mechanical ventilation
• Women with endometriosis, in cases of catamenial pneumothorax

Not Controllable

• Genetic predisposition to spontaneous pneumothorax
• Underlying lung diseases (e.g., COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis)
• Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome )
• Menstrual-related conditions (e.g., catamenial pneumothorax)
  
  

Controllable

• Smoking tobacco or vaping
• Exposure to rapid changes in air pressure (e.g., scuba diving, flying)
• Engaging in high-risk activities without proper precautions
• Substance abuse, particularly inhaled drugs
  
  

Who is Most at Risk?

• People with a history of lung disease (such as COPD, asthma, or cystic fibrosis)
• Individuals who smoke or have smoked in the past
• Those who have previously experienced a pneumothorax
• Patients undergoing mechanical ventilation
• People undergoing medical procedures that affect the lungs, such as lung biopsies or chest surgeries
  
  

How to Reduce Your Risk

• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Be cautious during activities involving significant air pressure changes
• Manage underlying lung conditions effectively
• Seek regular medical check-ups if you have a history of lung issues

Symptoms of pneumothorax can vary based on its size and cause but commonly include:

• Sudden, sharp chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heart rate
• Fatigue
• Bluish skin due to lack of oxygen (in severe cases)
  
  

In some instances, especially with a small pneumothorax, individuals may experience minimal or no symptoms.

To diagnose a pneumothorax, healthcare providers may perform:

• Physical Examination: Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope for diminished breath sounds.
• Imaging Tests:
  
  • Chest X-ray: Primary tool to detect air in the pleural space.
  • CT Scan: Provides detailed images, especially useful in complex cases.
  • Ultrasound exam of the chest
• Arterial Blood Gas Test: Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Lifestyle

• Cease smoking and avoid exposure to lung irritants.
• Follow medical advice for managing underlying lung conditions.
  
  

Medical Interventions

The nature of the medical therapy depends on the cause, size and severity of pneumothorax.

• Observation: A small pneumothorax may resolve on their own with rest and oxygen therapy.
• Needle Aspiration: A needle is inserted into the pleural space to remove excess air.
• Chest Tube Insertion (Thoracostomy):  A tube is placed into the chest to continuously remove air until the lung re-expands.
• Surgery: In recurrent cases or when other treatments fail, procedures like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) may be performed to repair the lung and prevent future collapses.

When to Seek Care

When to See Your Doctor

If you experience any symptoms of a collapsed lung, you should seek immediate medical attention.

When to Seek Emergent Medical Care

Immediate medical attention is necessary if you have:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Bluish skin coloration
• Loss of consciousness
  
  

Next Steps

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a collapsed lung, you should seek medical attention immediately.