What is A Pneumothorax?

Pneumothorax is a medical condition in which air gets between the lung and the chest wall, forming an air pocket. This air pocket collapses the lung, reducing its ability to function. If a person has a pneumothorax, their lung area may become painful, may develop a fever, and may become short of breath. The condition is also known as a collapsed lung.

How Does Pneumothorax Happen?

There are several ways in which a person can develop a pneumothorax. In some cases, the condition is caused by a traumatic injury, such as a car accident or a fall. Other times, the condition is caused by a lung infection or a lung tumor. In other cases, the cause of a pneumothorax is unknown.

Types of Pneumothorax

There are two types of pneumothorax: primary and secondary. Primary pneumothorax occurs without any lung damage or injury. It is usually caused by a rupture in the lung’s outer wall or a tear in an air sac in the lung. Secondary pneumothorax occurs when there is some form of lung disease or injury. This can include COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, or lung cancer.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for pneumothorax depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, a doctor may recommend resting and avoiding activities that might increase the pressure in the chest. Other times, a doctor may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms and reduce the pressure in the lung. Surgery is sometimes recommended for those with large amounts of air trapped in the chest cavity.

In many cases, pneumothorax can be prevented with lifestyle modifications. In particular, it is important to quit smoking, since smoking increases the risk of developing a pneumothorax. Additionally, anyone taking part in activities that involve contact such as boxing should wear protective gear and headgear. Finally, it is important for those with existing lung conditions to comply with their doctor’s instructions and maintain good physical health.