A collapsed lung involves the accumulation of air in the space amidst the lung and chest wall. As the amount of air increases, the pressure against the lung results to the collapse of the lung. This prevents the lung from properly expanding when attempting to inhale, causing chest pain and shortness of breath.
This condition can become dangerous if the pressure in the chest limits the lung from delivering sufficient oxygen into the blood.
What are the possible causes?
A collapsed lung is typically brought about by chest injuries such as fractured rib or puncture wound. It can also occur abruptly without any injury.
This can also result from damage to the lungs due to certain conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia and cystic fibrosis. The spontaneous type can also occur among individuals who do not have lung diseases. This occurs if an air-filled blister on the lung breaks open and releases air into the pleural space.
Individuals who smoke cigarettes are at high risk to develop a collapsed lung than those who do not. In addition, the more one smokes, the higher the chances of developing the condition.
What are the indications?
The indications usually depend on the size of the collapsed lung. In minor cases, the individual is not even aware that he/she has a collapsed lung. For severe cases, the symptoms quickly develop and can result to shock. The signs and symptoms might include the following:
- Shortness of breath that can be mild to severe depending on the degree of the lung that collapsed
- Abrupt, severe and piercing chest pain on the same side of the collapsed lung
It is important to note that the symptoms worsen with changes in the altitude.
Management
For a minor case, it only requires monitoring by the doctor. In some instances, oxygen might be administered via a mask. As for serious cases, the treatment involves the insertion of a needle or chest tube into the chest cavity.
Remember that both procedures can alleviate the pressure on the lung and enable it to re-expand. In some cases, surgery is required if the previous treatment options are not effective or if the collapsed lung recurs.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a collapsed lung is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage respiratory emergencies, register for a first aid and CPR course with Ottawa First Aid.