A collapsed lung is rare, but it can be serious. If you have signs or symptoms of a collapsed lung, such as chest pain or trouble breathing, get medical care right away. Your lung may be able to heal on its own, or you may need treatment to save your life.
What is the most common cause of a collapsed lung?
A pneumothorax can be caused by:
- Chest injury. Any blunt or penetrating injury to your chest can cause lung collapse. ...
- Lung disease. Damaged lung tissue is more likely to collapse. ...
- Ruptured air blisters. Small air blisters (blebs) can develop on the top of the lungs. ...
- Mechanical ventilation.
Why would someone have a collapsed lung?
Causes of collapsed lung include trauma to the chest cavity (fractured rib, penetrating trauma from a bullet, knife, or other sharp object), cigarette smoking, drug abuse, and certain lung diseases. Sometimes, the lung may collapse without an apparent injury, called spontaneous pneumothorax.
