Traumatic Pneumothorax

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

A traumatic pneumothorax

is a collapsed lung. All or part of your lung may collapse. A traumatic pneumothorax is caused by an injury that tears your lung and allows air to enter the pleural space. The pleural space is the area between your lungs and your chest wall. The air trapped in your pleural space prevents your lung from filling, and it collapses. A pneumothorax can happen in one or both lungs.

Common signs and symptoms include the following:

• Shortness of breath
• Soft bulges under your skin caused by air bubbles
• Chest pain
• Chest movement that is not even when you breathe
• Fast heartbeat
• A cough

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

• You have new or increased shortness of breath or chest pain.
• Your throat or the front of your neck is pushed to one side.
• You are sweating and feel like you are going to pass out.
• Your fingernails, toenails, or lips begin to turn blue.
• You have trouble thinking clearly.

Call your doctor or pulmonologist if:

• You have a fever.
• You hear a crackling noise or feel popping when you touch your skin.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

will depend on the size of your pneumothorax. If your pneumothorax is small, it may get better on its own. The goal of treatment is to remove the air from your pleural space. When your lung is able to fill with air, you will be able to breathe easier. You may need any of the following:

• Extra oxygen may be given if your oxygen level is too low. Oxygen may help the pneumothorax get better faster.
• Medicines may be given to prevent or treat pain or a bacterial infection. A sedative may be given to help you stay calm and relaxed.
• Needle aspiration is used to pull the air out of your pleural space through a needle.
• A chest tube may be placed to remove air, blood, or fluid from around your collapsed lung. This allows your lung to fill with air when you breathe, and helps your heart beat normally. The chest tube is attached to a container to remove air and collect any blood or fluid.
• Pleurodesis is a procedure used to irritate the walls of your pleural space. This causes the walls to close so air can no longer be trapped.
• Surgery may be used to repair your lung.

Breathing exercises:

You may need to do breathing exercises to strengthen your lungs. Ask your healthcare provider how to do these exercises, and how long you should do them.

Do not smoke:

Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can increase your risk for another pneumothorax. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

For your safety:

A change of pressure could cause another pneumothorax. Follow these and other safety precautions from your healthcare provider:

• Do not dive under water or climb to high altitudes.
• Do not fly if you have an untreated or recurring pneumothorax.

Follow up with your doctor or pulmonologist as directed:

You may need to return for more chest x-rays. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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