Types of Pneumothorax
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Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)
A pneumothorax, commonly referred to 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, preventing it from expanding properly during breathing. This can cause part or all of the lung to collapse and may lead to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen levels in the body.
What Causes a Pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax can develop for several different reasons. One of the most common causes is chest trauma, which may include:
- Rib fractures
- Penetrating chest injuries
- A heavy blow to the chest
- Crush injuries
However, pneumothorax can also occur spontaneously without any obvious injury. This is more common in:
- Tall, slim young adults
- People with underlying lung disease
- Casualties with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Smokers and people with weakened lung tissue
How a Collapsed Lung Affects Breathing
When air becomes trapped in the pleural space, the affected lung is unable to fully inflate. This reduces the amount of oxygen entering the bloodstream and can make breathing painful, difficult and distressing.
The casualty may experience increasing discomfort as the lung becomes more compressed, particularly when breathing deeply or moving.
Signs and Symptoms of Pneumothorax
Common signs and symptoms of a collapsed lung may include:
- Sudden chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Painful or difficult breathing
- Rapid breathing
- Shallow breathing due to pain
- Anxiety, distress or restlessness
- Uneven chest movement
- Reduced chest expansion on one side
- A dry cough
- Chest tightness or fatigue
In some cases, you may notice that one side of the chest rises less than the other during breathing. This can be an important sign that the lung is not expanding correctly.
Tension Pneumothorax
Although some pneumothorax cases remain relatively stable initially, the condition can become far more serious if additional air continues to enter the chest cavity.
This can lead to a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening medical emergency. In this situation, pressure builds inside the chest and begins to affect the heart, lungs and major blood vessels.
Tension pneumothorax requires immediate emergency medical treatment.
First Aid Treatment for a Collapsed Lung
If you suspect a pneumothorax, it is important to seek urgent medical assistance as quickly as possible.
What To Do
- Call 999 or seek emergency medical help immediately
- Help the casualty remain calm and reassured
- Encourage them to sit upright or in a comfortable position that eases breathing
- Monitor breathing, responsiveness and overall condition
- Be prepared for the condition to worsen
Avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the chest and continue to observe the casualty closely until emergency medical professionals arrive.
Importance of Early Recognition
For first aiders and first responders, recognising the signs of pneumothorax early is extremely important. Prompt medical treatment can help prevent complications and improve the casualty’s chances of recovery.
Any casualty with sudden chest pain and breathing difficulties following chest trauma should always be assessed urgently by medical professionals.
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