The chest tube can be connected to a suction machine to remove the excess air from the pleural cavity. A syringe is attached to the needle to draw the excess air out of the space.Ī chest tube is made of plastic and inserted into the body, in a similar way to a needle, to remove the air. The most common and effective way of dealing with a punctured lung is by the insertion of a chest tube or hollow needle.įor this procedure, the doctor inserts a hollow needle or chest tube into the pleural space to let the air out. Treatment for a pneumothorax involves lessening pressure on the affected lung to allow it to re-expand. When symptoms, such as breathlessness, are present or a large portion of the lung has collapsed, treatment is needed. Some people who have decreased oxygen levels due to a punctured lung may need supplemental oxygen until their lung re-expands fully. If no treatment is needed, the doctor usually monitors the lung with repeated chest X-rays to make sure the condition has resolved. The excess air in the pleural space is reabsorbed and the lung re-expands unaided. In instances where only a small portion of the lung has collapsed, and the pneumothorax is considered limited, treatment may not be needed. What treatment is needed depends on the severity of the condition and if a person is experiencing problems.
Share on Pinterest When there are no symptoms, a doctor may monitor the lungs with repeated X-rays. Signs of a punctured lung can also be seen on a chest X-ray, where black areas of air between the lung and chest wall will be visible. Lightheadedness: If blood oxygen level decreases, it can cause a person to feel lightheaded.Increased heart rate: A punctured lung may lead to lower oxygen levels in the body, which can affect heart function and lead to an increased heart rate.Bluish skin color: The skin can develop a bluish tinge from a lack of oxygen reaching the organs and extremities.Decreased sounds of breath: Because the lung is not expanding properly, air cannot be heard going in and out of the lungs on the affected side.Shoulder pain: Pain may radiate to the shoulder and back and is often made worse with coughing.Chest pain due to a punctured lung occurs from irritation of the tissue lining the lung. Chest pain: The lung itself has few pain receptors.Shortness of breath: Because the lung may not fully expand, breathing problems are usual.Usually, the greater the portion of the lung that has collapsed, the worse the symptoms are.
The symptoms of a punctured lung can vary.
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