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What Is a Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)? Causes and Emergency Signs
Risks and Complications of VATS Surgery: What Patients Should Know
August 5, 2026
A pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung, occurs when air collects between the lung and chest wall, preventing normal lung expansion. It can range from a small, manageable condition to a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and warning signs helps ensure timely diagnosis and care.
According to Dr. George Karimundackal, an esteemed thoracic surgeon in Mumbai, early evaluation is important because the severity of a pneumothorax can vary significantly between patients. “A collapsed lung should never be ignored, especially when symptoms like sudden chest pain and breathlessness occur. With accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options, most patients can recover well and return to normal activities.”
Dr. Karimundackal specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of complex chest and lung conditions. With expertise in minimally invasive and robotic thoracic surgeries, he provides personalised care for conditions such as pneumothorax, lung nodules, and lung cancer. His experience as a lung cancer specialist in Mumbai also allows him to manage a wide range of thoracic disorders with a comprehensive approach.
Not sure what happens when a lung collapses? Let’s understand the condition clearly.
What Is a Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)?
When air accumulates in this area, it creates pressure on the lung, causing partial or complete collapse. The amount of lung collapse depends on how much air has entered the pleural space and the underlying health of the patient.
A pneumothorax may be:
- Small and stable, requiring only observation
- Large or worsening, requiring medical intervention
- Life-threatening, especially in cases of tension pneumothorax
A collapsed lung can affect breathing efficiency because the affected lung cannot expand properly.
What leads to a lung suddenly collapsing? Let’s explore the common causes.
What Causes a Collapsed Lung?
A pneumothorax can develop due to several reasons, including medical conditions, injuries, or procedures.
Lung-related causes
- Weak areas or air blisters (blebs) on the lung surface
- Chronic lung diseases such as COPD
- Tuberculosis-related lung damage
- Lung infections
- Certain genetic lung disorders
Injury-related causes
- Road traffic accidents
- Falls or blunt chest injuries
- Rib fractures damaging lung tissue
- Penetrating chest injuries
Medical procedure-related causes
A pneumothorax may rarely occur after procedures such as:
- Lung biopsy
- Central line placement
- Mechanical ventilation
- Chest procedures
Lifestyle-related factors
Smoking significantly increases the risk because it damages lung tissue and promotes the formation of weak areas that may rupture.
Are all collapsed lungs the same? Let’s look at the different types.
What Are the Different Types of Pneumothorax?
Pneumothorax is classified based on its cause and severity.
- Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax
This occurs without any known lung disease. It commonly affects younger individuals, especially those who are tall, thin, or smokers.
- Secondary Spontaneous Pneumothorax
This develops due to an existing lung condition such as COPD, tuberculosis, or lung fibrosis.
- Traumatic Pneumothorax
This happens after chest injuries, accidents, or trauma that allows air to enter the pleural space.
- Iatrogenic Pneumothorax
This occurs as a complication of certain medical procedures.
- Tension Pneumothorax
This is the most serious form. Air continues to build up inside the chest, increasing pressure on the lungs and heart. It requires immediate emergency treatment.
How do you know if a collapsed lung needs urgent attention? Let’s discuss the warning signs.
What Are the Symptoms and Emergency Warning Signs of Pneumothorax?
Symptoms of pneumothorax can appear suddenly and may include:
- Sudden sharp chest pain, usually on one side
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Chest tightness
- Dry cough
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Bluish lips or fingertips due to low oxygen levels
Emergency warning signs include:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Sudden worsening of symptoms
- Fainting or confusion
- Very low oxygen levels
- Rapid heart rate with chest discomfort
A tension pneumothorax can become life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
Experiencing sudden chest pain or breathing difficulty?
Connect with a specialist immediately for proper evaluation and timely treatment.
Can anyone develop a collapsed lung? Let’s understand who is more vulnerable.
Who Is at Risk of Developing Pneumothorax?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of pneumothorax:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Previous pneumothorax history
- Chronic lung diseases
- Family history of spontaneous pneumothorax
- Tall, thin body structure
- Chest injuries
- Previous lung infections
Patients with underlying lung conditions should seek medical advice if they experience sudden respiratory symptoms.
How do doctors confirm pneumothorax? Let’s explore the diagnostic process.
How Is a Collapsed Lung Diagnosed?
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Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination and evaluation of symptoms.
Common diagnostic tests include:
- Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray is often the first test used to identify air collection and lung collapse.
- CT Scan
A CT scan provides detailed images and helps detect smaller pneumothoraces or underlying lung abnormalities.
- Ultrasound
Lung ultrasound may be used in emergency situations for quick assessment.
- Oxygen Level Monitoring
Pulse oximetry helps evaluate how effectively the lungs are supplying oxygen.
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the most suitable treatment approach.
Need clarity about your lung scan or symptoms?
Speak with an experienced specialist for accurate diagnosis and guidance.
What happens after diagnosis? Let’s explore the treatment options.
How Is Pneumothorax Treated?
Treatment depends on the size of the pneumothorax, symptoms, and whether it is a first or recurring episode.
- Observation
Small pneumothorax cases may only require monitoring and follow-up imaging.
- Oxygen Therapy
Supplemental oxygen can help the body absorb trapped air faster.
- Needle Aspiration
A needle is used to remove excess air from the pleural space.
- Chest Tube Placement
A chest tube may be inserted to continuously remove air and allow the lung to expand.
- Surgery
Patients with recurrent pneumothorax or persistent air leaks may require surgical treatment.
Minimally invasive techniques such as VATS surgery can repair lung leaks and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Does every pneumothorax require surgery? Let’s find out.
When Is Surgery Needed for a Collapsed Lung?
Surgery is not needed for every patient. However, it may be recommended when:
- Pneumothorax keeps coming back
- Air leakage continues despite chest tube treatment
- Both lungs are affected
- The patient has high-risk occupations such as pilots or divers
- Lung abnormalities increase recurrence risk
Surgical procedures may include:
- Removal of damaged lung tissue
- Repair of air leaks
- Pleurodesis, which helps prevent future lung collapse
VATS allows surgeons to perform these procedures through smaller incisions with faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Is one episode of pneumothorax the end of the problem? Let’s understand recurrence risk.
Can a Collapsed Lung Happen Again?
Yes, pneumothorax can happen again, especially if the underlying cause remains untreated.
Factors that increase recurrence include:
- Continued smoking
- Existing lung disease
- Previous spontaneous pneumothorax
- Persistent lung blebs
Preventive surgery may be considered for patients with repeated episodes.
Regular follow-up with a thoracic specialist helps reduce future risks.
What does recovery look like after treatment? Let’s discuss the healing process.
Recovery and Follow-Up After Pneumothorax Treatment
Recovery depends on the severity of the pneumothorax and the treatment performed.
Patients may need:
- Follow-up chest imaging
- Breathing exercises
- Gradual return to physical activities
- Avoidance of smoking
- Monitoring for recurring symptoms
After surgery, most patients gradually return to normal activities within a few weeks. Follow-up care ensures the lung has fully expanded and helps identify any concerns early.
Looking for expert care after a collapsed lung?
Get in touch with a thoracic specialist for comprehensive treatment and recovery support.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be serious, especially if the collapse is large or develops into tension pneumothorax.
Sudden chest pain and shortness of breath are the most common early symptoms.
Yes, recurrence is possible, especially without addressing underlying risk factors.
No. Surgery is usually considered for recurrent cases or persistent air leaks.
Air travel should be avoided until the lung has fully healed and a doctor confirms it is safe.
Although uncommon, pneumothorax can affect both lungs and requires urgent medical attention.
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15304-collapsed-lung-pneumothorax
Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes and not for promotional use.