Symptoms of PNEUMOTHORAX
The following symptoms vary according to the degree of lung collapse and extent of underlying lung diseases and may be less acute if the pneumothorax develops slowly. There is sharp chest pain, with extension of the pain to the shoulder, neck or abdomen. Shortness of breath may be mild or severe. A dry, hacking cough may develop. Occasionally, the air within the pleural cavity will progressively increase leading to a tension pneumothorax. Here, the pressure gets so high that it compresses the other lung and impairs blood return to the heart. Lightheadedness, loss of consciousness and death may occur.
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