Pneumothorax
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Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
A pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung, occurs when air enters the space between the lung and the chest wall, known as the pleural cavity. As air builds up within this space, pressure is placed on the lung, causing part or all of it to collapse.
This prevents the lung from expanding normally during breathing and can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the body.
What Causes a Pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax can occur for a number of reasons. One of the most common causes is chest trauma, including:
- Rib fractures
- Penetrating chest injuries
- A heavy blow to the chest
- Crush injuries
It can also occur spontaneously, sometimes in otherwise healthy people. This is more commonly seen in:
- Tall, slim young adults
- People with underlying lung disease
- Casualties with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Smokers or people with weakened lung tissue
How a Collapsed Lung Affects the Body
When air collects inside the pleural space, the affected lung cannot fully expand. This reduces oxygen intake and can make breathing difficult, painful and uncomfortable.
The casualty may struggle to take deep breaths and may begin breathing rapidly or shallowly to avoid worsening chest pain.
Signs and Symptoms of Pneumothorax
Common signs and symptoms of a collapsed lung include:
- Sudden chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Painful or difficult breathing
- Rapid or shallow breathing
- Anxiety or distress
- Uneven chest movement
- Reduced chest expansion on one side
- Chest tightness
- A dry cough
- Fatigue or weakness
You may notice that one side of the chest does not rise normally during breathing, which can indicate that the affected lung is not inflating correctly.
Possible Complications
Many simple pneumothorax cases do not immediately cause severe shock, but the condition can worsen if additional air continues to enter the chest cavity.
In some cases, a pneumothorax can develop into a tension pneumothorax, which is a far more serious and life-threatening emergency.
A tension pneumothorax occurs when pressure inside the chest continues to increase, affecting both breathing and circulation.
First Aid Treatment for Pneumothorax
If you suspect a pneumothorax, seek urgent medical assistance immediately.
What To Do
- Call 999 or seek emergency medical care
- Help the casualty remain calm and reassured
- Encourage them to sit upright or in a position that makes breathing easier
- Monitor breathing and responsiveness closely
- Watch carefully for signs of deterioration
Continue to reassure the casualty and avoid unnecessary movement while waiting for emergency medical professionals to arrive.
Importance of Early Recognition
For first aiders and first responders, recognising the symptoms of pneumothorax early is extremely important.
Prompt medical treatment can help prevent complications, reduce the risk of deterioration and improve the casualty’s chances of recovery.
Any casualty experiencing sudden chest pain and breathing difficulties, especially following chest trauma, should always receive urgent medical assessment.
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