Pneumothorax of the lungs is a rather dangerous condition, which is associated with the accumulation of gas (air) in the pleural space. Such a violation leads to a partial or complete subsidence of the lung, which in turn affects the work of the respiratory and circulatory systems. In any case, such a patient needs immediate medical attention.
Pneumothorax of the lungs: the main causes
In modern medicine, it is customary to distinguish several forms of such a state - it can be either partial or complete lung decay, unilateral or bilateral, primary and secondary, etc. However, there are several main reasons leading to the accumulation of gas in the space between pleura leaves:
- To begin with, it is worth noting that most often pneumothorax of the lungs is the result of an open wound to the chest or a closed injury, in which the pleura is damaged by fragments of the ribs.
- In some cases, there are so-called iatrogenic injuries that occur during diagnostic or medical procedures, for example, the installation of a catheter, puncture of the pleural cavity.
- In addition, lung decay can be caused by various diseases, in particular, a breakthrough of a pulmonary abscess, emphysema, spontaneous rupture of the esophagus, respiratory tract infection, swelling, etc.
- Often, pneumothorax is a complication of tuberculosis.
Pneumothorax of the lungs: main symptoms
In fact, the symptoms of this condition become noticeable only if the lung subsides at least 30 - 40%. This causes a sharp sharp pain in the chest, which often spreads to the arm, shoulder and shoulder blade. Soreness intensifies even with the slightest movement. Along with this, shortness of breath occurs - sometimes the patient complains of rapid breathing and lack of air, but in more severe cases, pneumothorax of the lung can lead to the development of respiratory failure. Due to insufficient oxygen, the skin turns pale, and sometimes acquires a bluish tint. It is worth noting that the absence of treatment is extremely dangerous, since after a few hours the pleural tissues are embraced by inflammatory processes, resulting in scarring. The presence of scars significantly complicates the treatment and brings a lot of inconvenience to the patient's life.
Pneumothorax: first aid
Of course, such a condition is extremely dangerous. That is why first aid for pneumothorax is extremely important. To start a sick patient, it is necessary to seat and provide sufficient fresh air and, of course, call an ambulance team. Or, if possible, urgently deliver the patient to the hospital on their own. If damage to the pleural membrane occurred as a result of an open chest injury, the wound must be closed with an airtight dressing (for example, from cellophane or film) - this will not only reduce blood loss, but also interfere with the penetration of air into the pleural cavity. Further treatment consists in evacuating the air (via puncture of the pleural cavity) and restoring the structure and function of the pleural sheets.