Stephen J. Schueler, M.D.


Dropped Lung Overview

Another name for Dropped Lung is Pneumothorax.

What is a pneumothorax?
A person with a pneumothorax has air trapped in the space between the outside of the lung and the inside of the chest wall. The air enters the space when there is a hole in the surface of the lung, which allows air to leak from the lung and into the space.

What are the symptoms of a pneumothorax?
The most common symptom of a pneumothorax includes sharp chest pain located on one side of the chest. The pain usually worsens during coughing or while taking a deep breath. Additional symptoms of a pneumothorax include difficulty breathing, coughing blood, faintness, fainting, excessive sweating, and a rapid pulse. Symptoms of a severe pneumothorax may include cyanosis and symptoms of respiratory distress.

How does the doctor treat a pneumothorax?
Treatment for a pneumothorax may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and the insertion of a tube into the chest. The chest tube removes air from the chest cavity.

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Last Updated: Jul 29, 2010 References

PubMed Dropped Lung References