Pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung, occurs when air enters the space between the lung and the chest wall (the pleural space). The trapped air puts pressure on the lung, causing it to partially or completely collapse. This condition can make breathing difficult and may require immediate medical attention depending on its severity.
The symptoms of pneumothorax may appear suddenly and can vary depending on the size of the lung collapse.
Common symptoms include:
• Sudden chest pain, often sharp and on one side
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Chest tightness
• Fatigue
• In severe cases, low oxygen levels and dizziness
Some small pneumothoraces may cause only mild symptoms or may be discovered during medical imaging.
Pneumothorax can occur for several reasons:
Spontaneous Pneumothorax
This occurs without an obvious injury and may happen in otherwise healthy individuals.
Secondary Pneumothorax
This type develops as a result of an underlying lung condition such as:
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• Asthma
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Tuberculosis
Traumatic Pneumothorax
This may occur due to chest injury from accidents, medical procedures, or trauma.
Healthcare professionals diagnose pneumothorax through:
• Medical history and physical examination
• Chest X-ray
• CT scan in some cases
• Monitoring of oxygen levels
These tests help determine the size of the pneumothorax and guide treatment.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Some small pneumothoraces may resolve on their own, while larger ones may require:
• Oxygen therapy
• Needle aspiration or chest tube insertion to remove air
• Monitoring in a hospital setting
Once the lung re-expands, proper recovery and rehabilitation are important.
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
• Sudden chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Dizziness or fainting
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure proper recovery.
Sukumvit Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center provides comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to support patients recovering from respiratory conditions, helping them improve breathing function, physical endurance, and overall quality of life.
