About
The condition when there is presence of air or gas in the cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, causing collapse of the lung, is called pneumothorax. It can be a complete lung collapse or a collapse of only a portion of the lung.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary in severity depending on the size of the pneumothorax and the current condition of the person.Some of the common symptoms include:
- Sudden Sharp Chest Pain
- Shortness of Breath
- Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia)
- Rapid Breathing (Tachypnea)
- Coughing
- Fatigue
These symptoms can also become severe with worsening conditions:
- Bluish Skin Color (Cyanosis)
- Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
- Distended Neck Veins
- Decreased or Absent Breath Sounds
- Tracheal Deviation
Diagnosis
Pneumothorax can be examined by Physical Examination that includes:
- Inspection
- Palpation
- Percussion
- Auscultation
Other than these, some imaging studies may also be suggested for proper diagnosis, namely:
- Chest X-ray
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
- Ultrasound
Treatment
Precise and timely treatment is important to ensure complete recovery and prevent further complications and the recurrence of pneumothorax. Your Doctor may advice one or more of these treatments as per your condition:
- Observation and Supplemental Oxygen
- Needle Aspiration
- Chest Tube Insertion
- Surgery (VATS or Thoracotomy)
- Emergency Treatment for Tension Pneumothorax
- Supportive Care and Follow-Up
