Pneumothorax
Key points
- A pneumothorax is collection of air or gas in the pleural space (the space surrounding the lungs).
- There are several types of pneumothorax, which are classified by cause.
- Signs and tests Stethoscope examination of the chest reveals decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side.
- The objective of treatment is to remove the air from the pleural space, allowing the lung to re-expand.
Alternative names
Air around the lung; Air outside the lung
Definition
A pneumothorax is collection of air or gas in the pleural space (the space surrounding the lungs). See also Spontaneous pneumothorax, Traumatic pneumothorax, and Tension pneumothorax.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
There are several types of pneumothorax, which are classified by cause.
Spontaneous pneumothorax is the occurrence of pneumothorax without a clear cause. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax occurs when there is no known underlying lung disease. It is thought to be caused by the rupture of a small, air-filled sac in the lung called a bleb or a bulla. The disease affects tall, thin men between 20 and 40 years old most frequently. Cigarette Smoking and family history are contributing factors.
Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is a complication of underlying pulmonary (lung) disease, such as COPD, Asthma, Cystic fibrosis, Tuberculosis, and whooping cough.
Traumatic pneumothorax results from a traumatic injury to the chest. The trauma may be penetrating (stab wound, gunshot) or blunt (blow from a motor vehicle accident). Pneumothorax may complicate certain medical procedures.
Tension pneumothorax is caused when excessive pressure builds up around the lung, forcing it to collapse. The excessive pressure can also prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively, leading to shock.
Symptoms
- sudden sharp chest pain, especially made worse by a deep breath or a cough
- Shortness of breath
- chest tightness
- easy fatigue
- rapid heart rate
- bluish color of the skin caused by lack of oxygen
Note: Symptoms may begin during rest or sleep.
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- nasal flaring
- anxiety, stress, and tension
Frequently asked questions
What is pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax is collection of air or gas in the pleural space (the space surrounding the lungs). See also Spontaneous pneumothorax, Traumatic pneumothorax, and Tension pneumothorax.
What are the risk factors for pneumothorax?
There are several types of pneumothorax, which are classified by cause. Spontaneous pneumothorax is the occurrence of pneumothorax without a clear cause. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax occurs when there is no known underlying lung disease. It is thought to be caused by the rupture of a small, air-filled sac in the lung called a bleb or a bulla. The disease affects tall, thin men between 20 and 40 years old most frequently. Cigarette Smoking and family history are contributing factors. Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is a complication of underlying pulmonary (lung) disease, such as COPD, Asthma, Cystic fibrosis, Tuberculosis, and whooping cough.
What are the symptoms of pneumothorax?
- sudden sharp chest pain, especially made worse by a deep breath or a cough
- Shortness of breath
- chest tightness
- easy fatigue
- rapid heart rate
- bluish color of the skin caused by lack of oxygen Note: Symptoms may begin during rest or sleep. Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- nasal flaring
- anxiety, stress, and tension
- hypotension (Low Blood pressure) Signs and tests Stethoscope examination of the chest reveals decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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