Pneumothorax and Tension Pneumothorax

Can a Chest X-Ray Always Detect Pneumothorax?

No, a chest X-ray may not always detect small pneumothoraces, and other imaging tests, such as a CT scan, may be needed for diagnosis.

What Causes a Pneumothorax to Become a Tension Pneumothorax?

A Pneumothorax can develop into a Tension Pneumothorax when an injury occurs to the trachea or a large bronchus.

What is the Difference between Pneumothorax and Tension Pneumothorax?

A pneumothorax is non-expanding whereas in the tension pneumothorax, a “one way valve” defect occurs which allows only allows the air to enter and not escape out of the pleural space. This decreases the venous return to the heart.

What are 5 Signs and Symptoms of a Tension Pneumothorax?

The 5 symptoms of tension pneumothorax are – sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, increased respiratory rate, tachycardia, and blue or discolored skin.

Can you Die from Pneumothorax?

Untreated pneumothorax can cause to serious health issue, in such conditions there can be life-threatening incidents. 

Can a Pneumothorax Heal on its Own?

Yes, small pneumothoraces can be healed on their own, but tension pneumothoraces should be diagonsed thorugh treatment only.

Can Pneumothorax be Developed from Scuba Diving?

Yes, scuba diving can raise the risk of growing pneumothorax due to changes in pressure that can cause lung injury.

Pneumothorax and Pneumothorax Tension are the two medical terms that affect the lungs and cause severe breathing problems. Both these problems occur due to the accumulation of air in the pleural space. This happens after lung injury or lung disease.

Pneumothorax and Pneumothorax Tension damages the pleural cavity of the body causing lung diseases. In this article, we will discuss Pneumothorax and Pneumothorax Tension in detail along with their similarities and differences.