Collapsed Lung - Signs, Symptom, Cause, Treatment and Prognosis of Partially Collapsed Lung

A collapsed lung refers to a condition in which the space between the wall of the chest cavity and the lung itself fills with air. The collapse or caving-in of all or part of a lung occurs when air gets into the area between the lung and the chest wall.

Normally, the outer surface of the lung sits next to the inner surface of the chest wall. Thin membranes called pleura cover both surfaces. A pneumothorax is commonly known as a collapsed lung.

Symptom of collapsed lung

Treatment for collapsed lung

Ensure that an early call for emergency medical help has been made. If the casualty is conscious, she will often find it easier to breathe if sitting up. Help the casualty into a sitting-up position if possible and provide support to remain in this position comfortably.

If you can determine the side of the injury, lean the casualty to the injured side. This helps relieve pressure on the good lung, allowing the casualty to breathe a littl e easier.

If there is an open sucking wound to the chest, cover this up as soon as possible. The best cover comes from using plastic sealed on three sides over the wound area. Help the casualty remove blood from her mouth.

If the person becomes unconscious, place into the recovery position on the injured side and monitor breathing carefully. Treat any open ound once the person is in the recovery position. Treat any broken ribs.