Pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, occurs when air enters the pleural space—the area between the lung and the chest wall. This condition can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in difficulty breathing and chest pain. Pneumothorax can be spontaneous (occurring without a clear cause) or traumatic (resulting from an injury).

Types of Pneumothorax

• Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Often occurs in healthy individuals without any obvious cause, frequently affecting young, tall men.
• Traumatic Pneumothorax: Results from injuries such as rib fractures, penetrating wounds, or medical procedures (e.g., central line placement).
• Tension Pneumothorax: A life-threatening condition where air enters the pleural space and cannot escape, leading to increased pressure on the lungs and heart.

Symptoms of Pneumothorax

Recognizing the symptoms of pneumothorax is crucial for prompt treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Decreased breath sounds on one side of the chest
• Cyanosis (bluish skin coloration)

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosis

Dr. Mandal employs a comprehensive approach to diagnose pneumothorax, including:

• Physical Examination: Listening to lung sounds and assessing breathing patterns.
• Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays or CT scans to visualize the presence of air in the pleural space.

Treatment Options

Treatment for pneumothorax depends on its size and severity. Dr. Mandal offers the following options:

• Observation: For small pneumothoraces that are not causing significant symptoms, careful monitoring may be sufficient. Follow-up appointments and repeat imaging tests will help ensure the condition does not worsen.
• Needle Aspiration: In cases where the pneumothorax is larger or causing discomfort, Dr. Mandal may perform a needle aspiration. This procedure involves inserting a needle into the pleural space to remove excess air, helping the lung to re-expand.
• Chest Tube Insertion: For more severe pneumothoraces or tension pneumothorax, a chest tube may be necessary. This procedure involves placing a tube between the ribs into the pleural space to continuously drain air and allow the lung to re-inflate.
• Surgery: In recurrent cases or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be required. Procedures may include video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) to repair the lung or pleura.

Why Choose Dr. Mandal?

As a leading pulmonologist in Mohali, Dr. Mandal brings extensive expertise and a patient-centered approach to his practice. His commitment to providing personalized care ensures that each patient receives the best possible treatment for pneumothorax.

Dr. Mandal and his team offer comprehensive care that includes:

• Detailed evaluations and accurate diagnoses
• Tailored treatment plans
• Ongoing follow-up and support

Schedule a Consultation

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pneumothorax, do not hesitate to reach out.

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward better respiratory health with Dr. A.K. Mandal!