Pneumothorax is defined as the collection of air or gas in the pleural cavity (chest), which then pushes on the outside of the lung. The pressure on the lungs disables it to expand as it normally should when taking a breath, thusit may result to partial or complete collapse of the lung. Generally, the pressure in the lungs is greater than the pressure in the pleural cavity (surrounding the lungs). When air enters the pleural cavity, this will cause the pressure to be greater than that of the lungs causing part or the entire lung to collapse.
Symptoms of pneumothorax
Several symptoms present in pneumothorax are dependent on certain factors such as:
- Amount of air that enters the chest
- Extent of the lung collapse
- Degree of lung disease.
- Two causes of pneumothorax
- Suddenly occurring for no known reason or spontaneous pneumothorax, and
- Resulting from an accident or injury or traumatic pneumothorax.
Causes for pneumothorax
Spontaneous pneumothoraxes are caused by a sudden rupture of a fluid-filled sac or small air sac in the lung for no apparent reason. Although it is sometimes said to be related to an activity done by seemingly healthy people, occasionally, it may occur during flying at high altitudes or scuba diving. It is observed that this condition commonly befalls on tall, thin men between the ages of 20 to 40. Moreover, people with lung disorders are more susceptible to spontaneous pneumothorax. Spontaneous pneumothorax symptoms include
- Dull, sharp or stabbing chest pain which begins abruptly
- Progresses with coughing or deep breathing
- Shortness of breath, quick breathing
- Abnormal breathing movement
- Cough
- Symptoms of complicated spontaneous pneumothorax are characteristically worse due to primary lung disease.
As stated from its name, traumatic or tension pneumothorax is caused by trauma or injury to the pleural cavity. This penetrating chest wound creates a hole allowing air to enter the pleural space resulting to a collapsed lung. However, medical procedures performed on the pleural cavity may also lead to traumatic pneumothorax such as thoracentesis. Other causes include delayed complication of a hidden injury, such as fractured rib that punctured the lung, lung damage due to asthma, emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Tension pneumothorax is characterized by:
- Abrupt and severe onset of chest pain
- Anxiety
- Distended neck veins
- Weak pulse
- Reduced breath sounds on affected side.
Treatment for pneumothorax
For spontaneous/ traumatic pneumothoraxes
- Seek medical attention at first symptoms even if they seem minor.
- A small, uncomplicated pneumothorax may resolve on its own.
- Air will be absorbed completely allowing the lung to re-expand.
- Supplemental oxygen may speed absorption process.
- Usually, to remove the air from the chest, a needle and syringe or chest tube through chest wall is inserted if the pneumothorax is small or relatively large, respectively.
- Air is then allowed to escape without the risk of re-entering.
- This will then enable the lung to re-expand itself within a few days. For large pneumothoraxes, surgery may be required.
Knowledge on these matters helps explain some of the necessary methods performed in first aid. Having an overall understanding of respiratory injuries such as pneumothorax can help when taking first aid training.