What is pneumothorax?
pneumothorax is a formal medical term for collapsed lungs. Sometimes known as spontaneous pneumothorax, the lungs collapse when the air accumulates in the space that surrounds it. Treatment of this potentially serious condition may include oxygen administration and artificial lung inflation.
There are several situations that can contribute to the occurrence of lung collapse. Injuries including chest trauma and fracture of ribs can lead to lung collapse. Some habits and activities can lead to lung collapse, including smoking, diving and flying. Individuals who have been diagnosed with certain lung disorders such as asthma, tuberculosis and cystic fibrosis may also experience lung collapse.
When the lungs collapse without any known cause, it can be referred to as spontaneous pneumothorax. In some cases, a small air pocket in the lung tissue itself, known as a bleb, may burst. The air that escapes from this cracked bag can leak into the cavity surrounding the lungs. Accumulation of leakedAbout air for a period of time can lead to partial or complete lung collapse depending on the amount of air pushing against it.
individuals with pneumothorax can gradually become symptomatic. The common symptoms associated with collapsed lungs include shortness of breath and intense chest pain that accompanies cough or deeply. Some individuals can easily get tired with little exertion or develop an accelerated heart rate. Other symptoms may include a bluish breath on the skin due to insufficient oxygen, low blood pressure and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
pneumothorax is usually identifiable by a stethoscope because it can be weakened or non -existent sounds of breath. Diagnostic testing can be done to confirm that pneumothorax has occurred and evaluated its severity. The chest X -ray can be made to see if the affected lung is surrounded in the cavity. Inwhich cases can be analyzed by arterial blood gas (ABG) to measure carbon and oxygen oxide levels in the blood.
Treatment of collapsed lungs depends on the extent of the collapse and the overall health of the individual. If the collapse is small, it can be monitored and left to recover separately. Individuals whose pulmonary collapse is considered mild can be administered with additional oxygen and instructed to rest. The air that has accumulated in the surrounding lung area can be removed by the needle to relieve any external pressure.
those who experience almost complete or complete lung collapse may require the location of the chest tube to release the escape air. Located between the ribs near the lungs, the thoracic tube can remain on the spot for several days, requires extended hospitalization. Additional oxygen can be administrator's thoracic tube supports the re -range of the affected lungs. Heavy cases of pneumothorax may require lung surgeryto repair the collapse and prevent future recurrence.
The individual's prognosis depends on the range of lung collapse and its cause. Those who have a history of pneumothorax or smoke are exposed to an increased risk of future lung collapse. Complications associated with lung collapse include recurring collapse and shock.